Editor-DN
What you need to know.
- The Gemini app on Android is reportedly introducing its new lock screen capabilities for calls and texts.
- When enabled, the feature allows users to command the AI ​​by voice to call or text one of their saved contacts.
- Google rolled out the feature in beta in December, and shortly after, the company began testing its new Flash 2.0 model.
Google is pushing an update for Android users that makes its AI Gemini a little more useful.
As seen. 9to5Googlethe Gemini app on Android is starting to introduce its new calling and messaging capabilities through the lock screen. The publication notes that this update for the Gemini app also affects the core Google Assistant. The company has reportedly reduced the amount of available features that Assistant can offer users as Gemini handles calling/messaging through the lock screen.
Google’s more capable AI model feature supposedly “replaces” Assistant’s “lock screen settings” and “Assistant routines.”
Additionally, as this feature rolls out to more Android phones, it is recommended that users enable the Phone app and Messages extensions through the Gemini app settings. Details of both extensions in Google A support pageStating that, when enabled, users can “ask” Gemini to call or send a text while in the app.
However, with the advent of this function for the lock screen, users only need to create an AI overlay and speak their commands into their phone. It appears that users can follow the same basic text commands when using the hands-free voice capabilities. Basically, users can say “Hey Google, call…” followed by the person’s name.
It should Do the same for messages. Saying “Ok Google, text/message…” will likely get the job done.
The publication states that the lock screen feature for Gemini’s calling/messaging was seen in version 15.50 of the Google app. So, if the feature hasn’t appeared on your device yet, chances are it’s still making its rounds.
In December, Google first dropped its “Gemini on lock screen” capabilities on Android testers. The beta revealed that some users can see a new Settings app within the Gemini app that details its lock screen functions. When activated, users can independently develop AI without unlocking their phone. However, it was discovered that this option will not be available in every device.
For devices without full support, Gemini will prompt users to unlock their devices to make calls.
Elsewhere, Google is rolling out its Flash 2.0 experience with its AI software to advanced subscribers. The test concerns subscribers and the Gemini app on Android, which lets them access the new faster, lighter model. The Flash 2.0 model takes things beyond what you get with the Flash 1.5 or even the Gemini 1.5 Pro model.
