Google broadened access to its Gemini AI within Google Messages. Initially exclusive to Samsung and Pixel devices, this feature is now available to any Android device with at least 6GB of RAM.
This time, the search engine giant introduced a dedicated quick-access button for the chatbot. This makes it faster to open and direct the user to the messaging app.
New Floating Action Button for Quick Access
A recent update has introduced a new floating action button (FAB) for faster access to Gemini.
Located just above the "Start chat" button in the bottom-left corner of Google Messages, this smaller FAB provides a quick and easy way to start a conversation with the AI chatbot.
Users need to accept the terms and conditions if it's their first time using Gemini in Messages. Once done, they can use Gemini to draft messages, generate dinner ideas, and more.
Related Article : Google Releases Gemini AI Chatbot to More, Younger Students
Requirements for Using Gemini in Google Messages
To use the Gemini FAB, users must meet specific requirements. Besides having a device with 6GB+ RAM, the phone's language must be set to English or French (for Canadian users), and RCS must be enabled in Google Messages. Additionally, users must be logged into their personal Google accounts to access Gemini, according to Android Police.
Streamlined Chatbot Access
Before this update, starting a conversation with Gemini required composing a new message and selecting the chatbot from a list. The new FAB reduces the steps needed to access Gemini, making it more user-friendly and efficient.
Potential and Limitations of Gemini in Google Messages
While the integration of Gemini into Google Messages marks a step forward, its current functionality has limitations. The chatbot cannot access users' messages, restricting its suggestions to the prompts entered by the user.
This means that, although convenient, Gemini's capabilities within Google Messages are somewhat limited compared to its full potential.
Future Prospects for Gemini Integration
For Gemini to truly enhance the Google Messages experience, deeper integration is necessary. If the AI chatbot could access and read messages, it could provide more relevant and contextually appropriate suggestions. This improvement would make Gemini a more powerful tool within the messaging app.
Google's ongoing efforts to integrate Gemini AI into Google Messages are promising, but there's room for improvement.
The recent addition of the floating action button enhances the user experience by providing quick access to the chatbot. However, for Gemini to reach its full potential, further integration allowing it to access and analyze messages is essential.
Last time, Google unveiled plans to bring influencer-inspired AI chatbots so people won't get bored with using Gemini all over again.
Back in May, the Gemini AI chatbot was touted to arrive in the Opera browser. It will share its AI features with Opera's Aria.
