Google Expands Gemini With New Features: What You Need To Know

Google is pushing hard for users to make it their default digital AI-powered assistant. But truth be told, Google Assistant still remains the best on-device assistant as it can perform several tasks, even on third-party apps like reading your messages or placing a WhatsApp call, which Gemini couldn’t. But now, Google is adding WhatsApp, Messages, and Android notifications extensions for Gemini as found in the latest APK teardown.

According to Android Authority, the latest Google App beta version 15.34.32.29.arm64 includes some new extensions for Gemini. These include WhatsApp, Messages, and Android system notifications. While these extensions can be activated from the Google app if you have the latest beta installed, they are not functioning yet, creating anticipation for what’s to come.

You can tell what each one will do by reading the description in the screenshot above. The WhatsApp extension will let you create and send messages to your contacts on the app, and even place calls directly through Gemini. The Messages extension allows you to read aloud incoming texts and send responses easily.

What’s interesting is the extension for Android system notifications. Its description is basic, stating, “Send or read Android system notifications.” However, this could mean you can ask Gemini to summarize messages or notifications, similar to how it summarizes YouTube videos. Imagine receiving a long message from someone and being able to ask Gemini to summarize it, saving you the hassle of reading through each message!

It’s still unclear when these features will become fully operational, but there is hope that Google is finally expanding Gemini’s functionality. Previously, many users lacked motivation to use Gemini actively as their main device assistant on Android due to its limited features beyond basic AI functions.

This expansion comes at a pivotal time as Apple gears up to reveal its AI-powered Siri, which might offer better functionality than Gemini. What do you think? Will you consider switching to Gemini once these extensions are available? Do you prefer Google Assistant or Gemini? Share your thoughts in the comments!