Following its debut at I/O 2024, Google has started rolling out its Gemini feature in Google Messages, according to 9To5Google. Stable users have been able to access this creative AI assistant, which appears as the initial contact when a new chat is launched, during the last several days.
Once users accept the terms and conditions, they are presented with a standard chat experience featuring gallery options and emojis. Audio memos cannot be uploaded, but image uploads are supported.
Apparently, Gemini is made to help with messaging composition, idea generation, organizing events, or just having fun. It responds with brevity in mind. Gemini is only meant for one-on-one conversations; it cannot be used in group chats, in contrast to Google Assistant in the now-defunct Google Allo.
Several Gemini Extensions are supported by this feature, including YouTube Music, Google Maps, and Workspace (@Gmail, etc.). Not only may users star or forward messages, but they can also long-press to provide input on responses, such as a thumbs up or down. Though they don’t end-to-end encrypt, conversations with Gemini take place using RCS, which must be enabled. Nor is Gemini accessible through the Wear OS app or the web version of Google Messages.
Canadian English and French are supported as part of this global rollout, which is not available in the EEA, the UK, Switzerland, or India. Since March, beta participants have had access to Gemini.
Dixon Technologies has started trial production of Google’s flagship smartphone, the Pixel 8, in a development that marks a significant shift in manufacturing to India, according to other reporting. Google’s growing focus on local manufacturing for its premium smartphones is shown by this calculated decision.
The Pixel 8 series’ local manufacturing timetable looks to be ahead of schedule, having originally been scheduled for the second quarter of 2024. The first Pixel 8 handsets made in India may go on sale by September, according to sources cited by the Economic Times. Trial runs have reportedly started.