Google is preparing an update for its AI assistant, Gemini, aimed at Android users. The new feature, dubbed “Conversation” mode, is designed to facilitate more natural interactions between the user and the AI. Unlike the traditional method that requires users to manually activate speech recognition for each query, the “Conversation” mode allows for a seamless dialogue, where the assistant's microphone reactivates automatically after each response, enabling users to ask follow-up questions without interruption.
Development Insights
The discovery of the “Conversation” mode was initially made by a tipster known as AssembleDebug, who spotted a new icon indicative of this feature in the assistant's interface. Despite being in the developmental phase and currently causing the assistant to crash, this update represents a significant step towards creating a more engaging and intuitive user experience. Google's initiative mirrors OpenAI's ChatGPT “Voice Conversation” mode, highlighting a growing trend in making digital assistants more human-like in their interactions.
Gemini assistant to get a new 'Conversation' mode on Android
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There is definitely some uncertainty about this feature about how it will exactly work 🥲#Google #Android pic.twitter.com/GWbmwVZfqf
— AssembleDebug (Shiv) (@AssembleDebug) April 24, 2024
Future of Google's AI Assistants
Since February 2024, Google has been positioning Gemini as the primary AI assistant on Android devices, gradually phasing out the Google Assistant. This strategic move is supported by the introduction of features aimed at enhancing real-time interaction and personalization, such as real-time response generation and integration with users' preferred music streaming services. Google's commitment to improving Gemini underscores its ambition to offer a more refined and user-centric assistant capable of understanding and participating in human-like conversations.
In March, Gemini's feature set was enhanced further with Automatic Google Maps. When users instruct Gemini to “Navigate me to [X],” the assistant not only provides essential details such as the distance and estimated time of arrival but also proceeds to launch Google Maps navigation after a brief interval. This development marks a significant enhancement in user convenience, streamlining the process of initiating travel.
