Google Gemini Expands Capabilities with New Utilities Extension, Closing Gap with Google Assistant

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Google is rolling out a new Utilities extension for Gemini, enhancing its functionality to match and potentially surpass Google Assistant on Android devices. This update brings Gemini closer to becoming a comprehensive virtual assistant.

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Google Introduces Gemini Utilities Extension

Google is rolling out a significant upgrade to its Gemini AI assistant, introducing the Gemini Utilities Extension. This new feature aims to bridge the functionality gap between Gemini and the traditional Google Assistant, potentially paving the way for Gemini to become the primary virtual assistant on Android devices 12.

Enhanced Capabilities

The Gemini Utilities Extension brings a host of new functionalities to Android devices, including:

  • Setting and managing alarms and timers
  • Opening websites and apps
  • Taking photos and screenshots
  • Controlling media playback
  • Adjusting device settings (e.g., volume, battery saver)
  • Performing multiple actions with a single command 23

These additions address one of the main criticisms of Gemini – its lack of basic functionality compared to Google Assistant 2.

Lock Screen Features

The update also introduces several lock-screen-specific features, enhancing user convenience:

  • Setting or silencing alarms and timers
  • Turning the flashlight on or off
  • Enabling Bluetooth
  • Checking battery level
  • Restarting the device 24

Rollout and Availability

The Gemini Utilities Extension is being gradually rolled out to Android users. To access this feature:

  1. Gemini must be set as the primary phone assistant
  2. The Gemini mobile app for Android must be installed
  3. Gemini Apps activity must be enabled
  4. The Utilities extension should be turned on (it's on by default) 34

Users can check for the extension's availability by tapping their profile photo in the Gemini app and looking for "Extensions" 2.

Limitations and Future Developments

While the extension significantly expands Gemini's capabilities, some limitations remain:

  • It's only available on Android devices
  • The extension works only with prompts in English
  • Certain functions, like controlling security devices, are still not supported 35

Google continues to work on replacing Assistant with Gemini, but more tools need to be added before a complete transition can occur 4.

Google Home Integration

In a related development, Google is also introducing Gemini support for Google Home. This integration allows users to interact with their smart home devices more conversationally through the Gemini app. The feature is currently available in the Google Home Public Preview program 5.

Implications for Google's AI Strategy

The introduction of the Gemini Utilities Extension and its integration with Google Home signify Google's commitment to positioning Gemini as its primary AI assistant. This move aligns with the company's broader strategy of enhancing its AI offerings and streamlining its virtual assistant ecosystem 14.

As Gemini continues to evolve and integrate more features, it's clear that Google is investing heavily in its AI capabilities to compete in the rapidly advancing field of conversational AI and smart home technology.

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