Redundancy is often associated with Google.
When Google officially launched Gemini after rebranding and relaunching Bard, many quickly noticed how far the two are apart. Gemini is much more powerful and capable, and that it makes Assistant look more like a relic. However, people also began noticing the striking resemblance Gemini has with Google Assistant.
The similarity lies in the fact that both are essentially 'digital assistants' designed to help users through text and voice.
OpenAI's release of ChatGPT showcased the immense potential of Large Language Models (LLMs), sparking a competitive arms race among tech giants.
Driven by this momentum, Google is advancing aggressively with Gemini, well aware of the lucrative potential in this field.
And this is where Google finally starts reducing that redundancy, by making Gemini a worthy assistant to slowly replace Assistant.
This time, Google is adding more basic features that make Gemini a good phone assistant, by giving users the ability to place calls and send messages with the AI, without having to unlock their device.
Here, Google introduces 'Make calls and send message without unlocking' option on Android, as well as the equally new 'Outgoing calls and message' heading.
Google explains how 'You’ll need to turn on your calling and messaging apps in Gemini for these features to work.'
This update can be considered a big deal because it means users can use Gemini for more tasks without having to unlock their phone first.
Which means that users can place a call or send a message, hands free.
This new feature enhances the convenience and efficiency of using Gemini on the go.
With this upgrade, Gemini becomes even more integrated into users' daily routine, making tasks easier and faster to accomplish.
This marks yet another step in bringing the AI towards greater versatility and functionality, making it even more integral to daily life.
This new feature significantly enhances the user experience, further cementing Gemini as a valuable tool.
Read: Google Prepares To Replace Google Assistant With Gemini, Using the 'Utilities' Extension
Reflecting on Gemini's early days, it’s remarkable how far it has come.
Initially launched on Pixel phones, its primary focus was on creative text generation—like crafting poems or scripts—and summarizing on-screen content. Fast forward to now, and Gemini's capabilities have expanded considerably. The introduction of calling and messaging functionalities marks a significant milestone in its evolution.
It's worth noting that while Gemini has made impressive strides, it still has ground to cover to fully rival Google Assistant, the platform it aims to replace.
With consistent updates like this, however, Google is narrowing that gap.
Read: How Google Introduces An AI-Bloatware Era Through The Supposedly Stock Android