Gemini AI Assistant Expands Its Reach: Now Available on More Android Devices!

Gemini AI Assistant, Google’s advanced chatbot, has quietly broken free from its initial limitations. Originally restricted to Android 12 and up, a recent update has opened the door for users with older devices. With the latest app version, those on Android 10 and 11 can now download and experience the full functionality of Gemini directly from the Google Play Store, ditching the need for the web version

The latest iteration of the Gemini app for Android, version 1.0.626720042, introduces compatibility with devices operating on Android 10 and 11, thereby reducing the minimum system requirements previously set for Android 12. This update enables users with older Android versions to conveniently access Gemini via the Google Play Store, offering them the full functionality of the app without the need for the web version.

This recent expansion was first brought to attention by Sumanta Das on Twitter (now known as X), and subsequently underscored by Artem Russakovskii from Android Police. The update appears to have been introduced discreetly, sans any prominent announcement from Google. Numerous users who have updated their Google app and Play Services on older Android devices can now access and utilize the Gemini app along with its functionalities, which were previously restricted to newer models.

Despite the considerable expansion, it remains noteworthy that Google’s official support page for the Gemini app still specifies a prerequisite of Android 12 or later versions. However, the revised Play Store listing now accommodates older Android users seamlessly, enabling them to access Gemini without encountering any complications. Users can fully engage with the AI chatbot, positioned as an alternative to the established Google Assistant, thereby bringing comparable intelligent assistance to their devices.

Also Read: What’s New? Apple Releases IOS 17.5 Beta Update For Public

How to replace Google Assistant with Gemini AI Assistant 

Check your phone’s software version: Navigate to Settings > About Phone or System > About Device.

Download Gemini: Launch the Google Play Store app on your device. Search for “Gemini” and proceed to download the application.

Set Gemini as your default assistant:

1. Open the Google app.
2. Tap your profile picture or initial located in the top right corner.
3. Select “Settings,” then navigate to “Google Assistant.”
4. Locate “Digital assistants from Google.”
5. Choose “Gemini” from the list of available options.

Once integrated, Google Gemini will supersede Google Assistant as the primary AI assistant on compatible devices. The Gemini AI assistant offers the following functionalities:

1. Creating or modifying alarms and timers
2. Making phone calls, sending messages, and reading incoming messages
3. Controlling your device, like turning on your flashlight or Bluetooth, or opening an app
4. Controlling your lights, home security, and other smart home devices
5. Broadcasting messages on connected devices in your home
6. Reading a web page out loud (Pixel 8 or later)
7. Getting help with your Pixel by saying “Help me with my Pixel” (Pixel 8 or later)
8. Setting reminders and creating calendar events

Nonetheless, Gemini retains certain features of Google Assistant to manage particular commands, ensuring a smooth experience for users familiar with the previous AI assistant. Should you opt to revert to Google Assistant, simply follow identical steps and select “Google Assistant” as your preference.