Because of this new extension, Gemini is one step ...

Google Gemini has been obtainable on Android gadgets as a substitute for Google Assistant for fairly a while now. Nevertheless, the AI chatbot lacked a few of Google’s Assistant’s primary options. With the Utilities extension replace, that every one modifications, and Gemini is one step nearer to thoroughly changing Google Assistant.

Google just lately began rolling out the Gemini Utilities extension extensively to customers. This extension permits Gemini to carry out many duties Google Assistant can do, similar to managing alarms, setting a timer, opening apps, and more.

When you get the Utilities extension in your machine, Gemini will cease utilizing Google Assistant as a fallback for a lot of primary telephone duties. Should you nonetheless do not see the Utilities extension in your Gemini app, it is easy to allow.

How one can allow the Gemini Utilities extension

You might have to pressure cease the Google app

In case your machine nonetheless makes use of Google Assistant as a fallback, it is easy to get the Utilities extension to switch it. I used the next technique (through 9to5Google) on my Pixel 8a with Android 15 to get it. Firstly, guarantee Gemini is your default assistant and never Google Assistant, and that Gemini Apps Activity is turned on.

Subsequent, open the Gemini app after which open the multitasking window. From there, faucet the App data icon and force-stop the Google app. While you return to the Gemini app and test your extensions, the Utilities extension ought to now be enabled. If it nonetheless does not work, strive restarting your telephone.

With the Utilities extension, Gemini can carry out most of the primary duties that Google Assistant has been capable of do eternally, like checking the battery stage in your telephone, adjusting the amount, and turning the flashlight on and off. You can even use Gemini to finish a number of duties without delay, similar to taking a photograph with a 10-second timer. At present, the Utilities extension solely works with English prompts.

Final summer season, Google made Gemini the default assistant on the Pixel 9 collection, signaling that the AI chatbot will at some point completely substitute Google Assistant. The Utilities extension and several other extensions rolling out quickly, like Google House, WhatsApp, Spotify, and Messages, point out that Google Assistant’s days in your smartphone are restricted, however Google reiterates it will likely be sticking round for smart home devices.

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