Google Unveils a Cutting-Edge AI App for Your Android Phone

Remember Bard, Google's response to ChatGPT? It has now been officially rebranded as Gemini. Additionally, all of the advanced AI features previously known as Duet AI are now integrated under the Gemini umbrella. For those who may not be following the rapid developments in artificial intelligence, the name Gemini comes from the multi-modal large language model bearing the same title.

In line with this rebranding, Google has launched a standalone Gemini app for Android. Furthermore, iPhone users will also access the Gemini experience through the Google app on iOS. But there's even more to this story.

Google has made a significant announcement, albeit with a pricing detail attached. Gemini will be available in three versions: Nano, Pro, and Ultra, each differing in training dataset size and capabilities.

The Gemini Nano model is already natively integrated into the Google Pixel 8 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy S24 series. Today, Google is granting access to the first-generation Ultra model, named Gemini Advanced, which will be available through a new Google One AI Premium subscription priced at $19.99 per month.

While all this Gemini talk may sound like merely another buzzworthy AI press release, it signifies a substantial shift. In fact, it wouldn't be surprising to see Google Assistant gradually being replaced by Gemini on your phone, tablet, smartwatch, and other devices within the ecosystem.

“It’s an important first step in building a true AI assistant, one that is conversational, multimodal, and helpful,” according to Google. This embodies the AI evolution that Google Assistant was meant for, and with good reason.

Accessing Gemini is straightforward; you can summon it just like Google Assistant on an Android device. Long press the power button, use a voice command, or swipe from the bottom corner. Gemini will assist you regardless of the app you're using.

Another exciting feature of Gemini is its ability to recognize on-screen content. For instance, if you've taken a photo of a cat knocking over your coffee mug, just call on Gemini to craft a playful message describing the mischievous cat for your family WhatsApp group, and it will effortlessly do so—something Google Assistant couldn’t manage. Similarly, Gemini can provide insights related to articles displayed on your screen, fulfilling all the expectations of a multi-modal AI assistant.

The most impressive part is that Gemini can function on your phone and accomplish many tasks that Google Assistant handles. Setting numerous alarms to ensure you wake up? Check. Contacting a perpetually unreliable friend? Absolutely. Managing your smart home appliances? Gemini can do that, too.

For iOS users, the Gemini app will soon be accessible within the Google app, rolling out in the upcoming weeks. Currently, Gemini supports only the English language, and its mobile release is primarily in the U.S. However, support for additional languages and broader market availability is on the horizon.