Google Assistant is here to stay! Despite Google’s decision to integrate Gemini into the Pixel 9, the Assistant will continue to be available. The exciting news is that users can now access Gemini on smartphones beyond just the Google Pixel. This includes compatibility with both Android and iOS devices.
But the question on many minds is whether this service comes at a cost. What features does Google’s AI chatbot offer? And is it possible to turn it off if you choose?
Exploring Your Options: Subscription vs. Free Version
To get started with Google Gemini, you’ll need to download it from the Google Play Store for Android or the Apple App Store for iOS.
After successfully installing the application, logging into your Google account is required.
Upon entering the interface, users can choose between a free version of Gemini or opt for a monthly subscription.
Those who stick to the free version will have access to Gemini 1.5 Flash, which, while more compact, still offers a multitude of valuable features.
If you decide to invest in the subscription at $20, you’ll gain access to Google One AI Premium, which includes the advanced capabilities of Gemini powered by the Gemini 1.5 Pro model.
It’s important to note that there is a significant difference between the free and paid versions of Gemini, even on a smartphone.
For instance, the Pro model provides responses that cover a wider array of topics and delivers answers that feel notably more sophisticated.
How to Interact with Gemini on Your Smartphone
Once you have installed the application, logged in, and selected your preferred version, you can start chatting with Gemini right from your smartphone.
To do this, simply type your question in the text box at the bottom of the screen, and Gemini will display the answers at the top.
There are four distinct methods to interact with the chatbot:
- Type your inquiry into the text box.
- Utilize the microphone for voice commands.
- Tap the camera icon to request information about an image.
- Engage in real-time conversation with Gemini Live by clicking the sound wave icon.
What Can You Do with Gemini Once Installed?
In general, Gemini operates similarly to other AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Claude AI, or Microsoft’s Copilot, even when accessed on a smartphone.
You can pose virtually any question you like, with exceptions for topics involving violence, harassment, NSFW content, or threats to child safety.
However, you can ask it to draft professional emails, suggest birthday themes, or recommend podcasts, among other things.
Under each response, you’ll notice a thumbs-up and a thumbs-down icon.
These icons allow you to indicate whether you found Gemini’s response helpful or not, thereby assessing its performance.
Can I Share My Responses with Others?
Absolutely! A “Share” icon will appear on your screen, allowing you to send any response directly to your contacts.
Additionally, a “Copy” button will enable you to save the content to your smartphone’s clipboard.
If you want to send the response to Gmail or Google Docs, simply click on the three dots located to the right of your response.
Does Gemini Support Image Generation?
Similar to ChatGPT, which enables users to generate images through DALL-E, Gemini also features an AI image generation tool.
This functionality is powered by Google’s Imagen 3 engine, available to all users regardless of their subscription status.
However, to generate images of specific individuals, a subscription to Gemini Advanced is required.
Hopefully, Google will lift this restriction in the future. Otherwise, you can always use your smartphone’s camera to seek information on an image via Google Lens.
How to Disable Google Gemini on Your Smartphone
If you no longer need Google Gemini, it is entirely feasible to revert back to Google Assistant on your device.
To do this, access your device settings, select “Assistant,” and then choose “Google’s Digital Assistants.”
A window will pop up where you can select either Google Assistant or Gemini.
Our blog thrives on reader engagement. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for your support!
As a young independent media, Web Search News aneeds your help. Please support us by following us and bookmarking us on Google News. Thank you for your support!