Google is preparing to introduce its Gemini AI to Android tablets. Currently, Gemini is only accessible on Android smartphones. Users must select either Gemini or Google Assistant as their device’s assistant upon installation. However, this choice may not be necessary for tablets.
9to5Google conducted an analysis of the newest Google Search app’s APK and discovered code indicating Google’s intention to extend Gemini to tablets. The code strings found in the app by the publication include:
- Gemini works on your tablet.
- It’s a digital helper that uses the Google app to access specific permissions and information on your device, such as your phone app, call and text history, contacts (to stay connected), apps like the Clock (for managing alarms and timers), and what’s on your screen (to assist you with it).
- Gemini is still learning. Google Assistant might step in to help with certain tasks that Gemini can’t do yet. Not all Google Assistant features may work with Gemini.
- You can use voice commands to interact with Gemini or Google Assistant without touching your device, as long as “Hey Google” and Voice Match are enabled in the settings.
The messages show that the Gemini feature for Android tablets will work within the Google app. It’s not known if there will be a separate Gemini app for tablets.
9to5Google was able to get Gemini working on a Pixel Tablet, showing it can work with Google Assistant on the device. When the tablet is docked, saying “Hey Google” activates Google Assistant, not Gemini, even though the setup screen suggests Gemini would take over if users choose to use the AI.
Gemini and Assistant aren’t fully equal in features at the moment, and the Pixel Tablet mainly acts as a smart display powered by Assistant. Therefore, Google might allow the use of both Gemini and Assistant on this tablet until Gemini becomes better at controlling smart home devices.
Additionally, according to the report, using Gemini on the Pixel Tablet feels much like using it on the Pixel Fold. The feature isn’t officially available yet, but when it is, the Pixel Tablet is expected to be the first to have it.
What do I think?
I think Google’s new Gemini AI on Android tablets will be cool. Right now, it’s only on phones. Soon, you can pick it or Google Assistant on tablets too. I read 9to5Google and found hints in an app that Gemini’s coming to tablets. Gemini helps with lots of stuff on your device, like calls and reminders.
But it’s still learning. Sometimes, Google Assistant will help instead. You can talk to both without touching your tablet. Gemini’s not perfect yet, but it’s getting there. It’s exciting to see it on my tablet soon, just like on my phone.
