Google Gemini: The Default Assistant for Pixel 9

Tuesday's Made by Google event solidified Gemini as the default assistant for Pixel devices. Previously, users had the option to switch from Google Assistant to the generative AI platform, and now the new Pixel 9 smartphones will ship with Gemini preinstalled.

Google acknowledges that users dissatisfied with this AI, which may still experience some inaccuracies, can revert to what the company refers to as the “legacy assistant.” However, the term "legacy" might be misleading; Google has reaffirmed that Assistant will continue to be part of its Nest and Home product offerings.

The hardware division of Google has also received enhancements, including significant updates to the Nest Learning Thermostat and the new Google TV Streamer, which replaces Chromecast, along with fresh AI features.

Gemini presents both exciting possibilities and challenges. Recent generations of neural networks have demonstrated remarkable capabilities, from natural language processing to image creation. Yet, the underlying black-box model can still encounter issues, prompting some to question whether the current excitement has led Google to hasten its rollout of these AI solutions.

Google has unveiled an impressive array of AI tools, especially in imaging, featuring capabilities like Magic Eraser and the new Add Me editing tool. With the Pixel 9, users gain additional AI enhancements, including the Gemini 1.5 Pro-powered Live feature, which aims to facilitate more natural conversations directly on the phone.

As Pixel 9 devices start shipping on August 22, Google is likely planning for a wider integration of the Gemini assistant across Android devices. The success of this rollout will depend on Google's update schedule as well as how other manufacturers, such as Samsung, respond. Though some companies are developing their own generative AI solutions, such as Galaxy AI, there’s little indication that these will surpass Gemini in effectiveness.

A key factor in this rollout will be whether Google plans to support the "legacy" Assistant indefinitely on mobile devices and if lower-end phones will be capable of running Gemini.