Google has rolled out an exciting update for its Gemini app, allowing iPhone users to interact with the AI chatbot directly from their lock screens. This new feature, first spotted by 9to5Google, is set to revolutionize the way users engage with AI on their devices.
Key Features of the Update
- Gemini Live: Users can now call up Gemini Live, Google's real-time voice feature, without unlocking their phones. This makes it easier than ever to interact with the AI assistant on the go.
- New Lock Screen Widgets: The update introduces six new lock screen widgets, including options for typing prompts, talking live, opening the mic for reminders and calendar events, using the camera to take photos and ask questions, sharing images, and sharing files.
- Enhanced User Experience: These widgets offer a glimpse of what is possible with large language models (LLMs) and voice assistants, enhancing the overall user experience.
How to Use the New Features
To take advantage of these new features, follow these simple steps:
- Update the Gemini App: Ensure your Google Gemini app is updated to the latest version.
- Add Gemini Widgets: Long press your lock screen and select "Customize." Choose "Lock Screen" and add the Gemini widgets. You can add up to six widgets, including options for typing prompts, talking live, opening the mic, using the camera, sharing images, and sharing files.
- Interact with Gemini Live: Once the widgets are added, you can interact with Gemini Live directly from your lock screen. Tap the "Talk Live" widget to start a conversation with Gemini without unlocking your phone.
The Future of AI on iPhone
As Apple faces delays in launching its own AI-enabled Siri, which is now expected to debut in 2027, competitors like Google are stepping in to provide iPhone users with advanced AI assistants. The new lock screen widgets are part of Project Astra, Google DeepMind's multimodal AI project, and will initially be available to subscribers of the $20-a-month Gemini Advanced plan.
Conclusion
Google's latest update to the Gemini app is a significant step forward in making AI more accessible and user-friendly. By enabling iPhone users to interact with Gemini directly from their lock screens, Google is setting a new standard for AI integration on mobile devices. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as Google continues to innovate in the AI space.