At its hardware launch event today, Google introduced several new AI features, including Gemini Live. Rolling out today to Gemini Advanced subscribers in English on Android phones, Gemini Live offers a “mobile conversational experience” that enhances interactions with AI, similar to Google Assistant but branded under the Gemini name.
This feature allows for free-flowing conversations where users can interrupt or pause discussions to explore topics more deeply or return to them later.
Additionally, Gemini Live operates hands-free, enabling users to engage with the app while it runs in the background or when the phone is locked. It also introduces ten new voices for a more personalized experience.
In the coming weeks, Google plans to expand Gemini’s capabilities with new extensions. These will integrate Gemini with apps like Keep, Tasks, and Utilities, and add features to YouTube Music.
A Calendar extension will also be released shortly, allowing users to interact with Gemini by taking photos of event flyers to check their availability and set reminders, although direct ticket purchases may come later.
For Android users who have replaced Google Assistant with Gemini, the AI can be activated by saying “Hey Google.” When using YouTube, users can tap on “Ask about this video” to pose questions to Gemini about the content they’re viewing.
This functionality extends to other screens with the “Ask about this screen” option. Gemini can also drag and drop generated images into Gmail and Google Messages.
Google promises to focus on improving speed and quality for Gemini in the near future, with plans for deeper integration with Google Home, Phone, and Messages.
