Google Expands Gemini AI Assistant's Capabilities on Android Lock Screens

Gemini AI Assistant Can Now Complete Certain Tasks on the Lock Screen

Gemini extensions are now being expanded to function on the lock screen of Android devices. While Gemini could perform some tasks on the lock screen earlier, such as turning on the flashlight or setting an alarm, these were routed through Google Assistant. Now, the Mountain View-based tech giant has enabled extensions on the lock screen, allowing the artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot to perform these tasks independently. Notably, some tasks -- mainly those needing the AI assistant to use personal information from apps -- will still require users to unlock their devices first. In a support page, Google detailed the new Gemini AI assistant feature. The company is now enabling the Gemini extensions to work even on the lock screen of Android devices. Extensions were first rolled out last year, and they let Gemini connect to different apps and functions of a device to perform tasks. So far, these extensions have been available on the web client, the Android app, as well as on the Gemini AI assistant. But these did not work on the lock screen. As a result, completing even basic tasks such as setting an alarm would require Gemini to activate Google Assistant. With this new feature, users will find a more seamless Gemini experience while accessing the assistant on the lock screen. Gadgets 360 staff members were able to confirm that extensions were working on their Android lock screen. Gemini AI assistant can now complete tasks such as answering general queries, setting a reminder, getting quick navigation details, or finding a nearby store right from the lock screen. Once activated via the usual methods, the redesigned Gemini interface appears. However, it automatically opens the full-screen interface while completing the task. The functionality should be turned on by default for those users who have been using Google Assistant on the lock screen. However, those who have not used the virtual assistant when the device is locked will have to turn on the feature manually. This can be done by opening the Gemini app, tapping the profile icon, then going to Settings > Gemini on lock screen > and turning on Use Gemini without unlocking. Notably, any task that requires accessing another app or drawing personal information from those apps will still require users to first unlock their device.

Google Gemini update makes the AI much more useful when your phone is locked

Gemini won't be able access personal information such as your calendar Google is expanding what Gemini is capable of doing from your phone's lock screen. The new AI update will allow Android device users to quickly access Gemini extensions alongside the AI's regular assistance without needing to unlock their phone once they've enabled the feature. To access the lock screen version of Gemini you'll need to use either the 'Hey Google' wake word, or your device's inbuilt AI activation (such as long-pressing the power button on Google Pixel phones). Then you can make your usual Gemini requests - either to receive the AI's more in-depth responses, or to tell it to perform an action using one of your other apps. Previously, if Gemini needed to rely on another app to finish its objective you'd have to unlock your device, which could be frustrating if you were hoping to complete the task hands-free. Now prompts such as setting up a reminder to grab some chocolates and roses before your date night, or asking when the nearest Starbucks closes and how far away it is, can be performed hands-free with a locked phone. Unfortunately (or fortunately depending on how you look at it) Gemini won't be able to pull personal information from apps like your calendar or emails unless you unlock it first - which while not great for ease of use means you won't need to worry about the AI revealing private information to anyone who asks your phone a probing question. Activating Gemini's new extension powers is simple. If you previously allowed Google Assistant on lock screen or Gemini on lock screen then the new tool has been activated by default. If you hadn't previously enabled your AI to work on your lock screen but want to activate it you'll need to open the Gemini app, tap on your profile picture in the top-right corner of the screen, go into your Settings, tap on 'Gemini on lock screen' and then in this sub-menu toggle on the option at the top of the page. Once you've allowed Gemini to work without unlocking your device you'll need to separately allow the AI to make calls and send messages without unlocking - which also requires you to connect your calling and messaging apps with the AI.