What is Google Gemini?

Google has recently unveiled its Pixel hardware lineup for the next year, and one key aspect of the new products was the integration of its Gemini AI software. Not only is it a cornerstone of the phones, but Gemini has even made its way into the realms of earbuds too, with the new Google Pixel Buds Pro 2. So, what is Google Gemini and could it be a real selling point of the Google Pixel range?

What is Google Gemini used for?

Gemini is Google’s AI software agent, there to help with questions, tasks and now, thanks to Gemini Live, engage in general conversation. It was first introduced back in December 2023 by Google CEO Sundar Pichai and is available through the Gemini webpage in a similar fashion to Microsoft’s Copilot, ChatGPT and a whole host of other impressive new AI services. 

You can ask Gemini to explain concepts in simple terms, answer factual questions, create images via text prompts, suggest meal plans, write things for you, research a subject, and various other information-based tasks. 

It’s the integration into Android phones, specifically the new Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold that have really caught the eye. Google showcased a number of new on-device features from Gemini that do look really cool and genuinely helpful. 

For instance, Gemini is beginning to integrate directly into other Google apps like Gmail, Maps, Calendar, Keep and YouTube via new extensions the company is rolling out.

These will allow you to ask Gemini a question about something mentioned in an email – and Gemini will find and tell you the answer. Or, if someone has emailed you a recipe, Gemini will be able to analyse it and create a shopping list of required ingredients and place it in Google Keep.

There’s also the ability to ask Gemini questions about a video you’re watching in YouTube. You can even take a photo of an upcoming event and ask Gemini to check your calendar to see if you’re free on that date. 

Google has a list of the service’s other capabilities on the Gemini webpage.

What is Gemini Live?

One of the standout features announced by Google is the new Gemini Live. This is a conversational assistant that you can talk to when planning days out or events, or for guidance and advice on a new area, for example. It’s a voice interface that understands normal speaking patterns, so you talk to it as you would a human. If you say something wrong or want to change tack, Gemini can cope with interruptions and use the context of the conversation to give relevant answers. 

As Gemini is a voice-first interface, it’s also now incorporated into the new Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2, so you can interact with the AI without needing to get your phone out of your pocket. 

Is Google Gemini a replacement for Assistant?

Gemini is now the default assistant on Google Pixel 9. But for earlier models, the more familiar Google Assistant is the default. It can set timers, control smart home devices, send messages and make calls, among other tasks.

Is Google Gemini available now?

You can access Google Gemini in various ways. The Gemini web portal is a great way to explore what you can do with the service. There’s also the Gemini app, which is supported on Android devices running Android 10 or later and with 2GB or more of RAM.

Gemini is now being baked into Android 14 as the default voice assistant, but for most devices (as well as the app), this version will use Google’s online servers to process commands and deliver the results.

The Pixel 8 Pro can use Gemini Nano – the on-device version of the AI – to deal with local tasks, and the same is true of the new Pixel 9 series. Other high-end Android phones will also be able to access this version of the service. Google has stated on the Gemini Nano webpage that the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a will also get developer options soon. 

Is Google Gemini AI free?

Some of the features covered above are free to use, such as asking questions and other information-gathering tasks, but for the more advanced features such as Gemini integration into Google Docs, Gmail and other apps, plus the upcoming Gemini Live, you’ll need to sign up to Gemini Advanced, which is on the Google One AI Premium tier. This will set you back £18.99/$20 per month. 

There are other benefits though, as the plan also includes 2TB of Google Drive storage, a FitBit Premium subscription, 10% store credit when you make a purchase from the Google Store and other bonuses. 

Will older Pixel devices get Google Gemini?

The hardware requirements for the on-device Gemini Nano mean that it will only work on the newer Pixel devices – which boils down to the Pixel 8 Pro and the new Pixel 9 devices. Earlier models will still be able to use the Gemini app, which works through Google’s online servers. 

For more on what Google recently announced, check out 5 new features on the Pixel 9 that we can’t wait to try.