In a significant development for Android users, the Gemini AI app has introduced a new feature that allows for the seamless setting of Routines through voice commands. This enhancement comes as Google continues to transition the functionalities of Google Assistant to its new AI model, Gemini, which is now positioned as the primary AI assistant for Android devices.
Gemini App Brings Google Assistant’s Routines on Android
During the recent Made by Google event, a series of exciting features were unveiled for Gemini, including the reintroduction of Google Assistant’s popular Routines. According to a report from 9to5Google, this capability is now accessible within the Gemini app for Android, marking a notable shift from earlier this year when users faced limitations in setting Routines through the app.
Previously, attempts to set Routines via Gemini were met with a message indicating that the feature “no longer works.” With this latest update, users can once again utilize the familiar Routines experience, now integrated into the multimodal capabilities of Gemini.
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How to Set New Routines via the Gemini AI App
Setting a Routine with Gemini is straightforward; users simply need to say “start” followed by the specific routine they wish to activate. While Gemini serves as the primary interface for these commands, it will internally call upon Google Assistant to execute the requested actions. However, it is important to note that not all starters or actions are supported by Gemini, and typing out the Routine is not currently an option.
Google Assistant and Gemini AI
Google Assistant has long been a staple experience for Android users, particularly on devices like the Pixel, where it has been praised for its capabilities. Once regarded as the leading AI voice assistant, Google Assistant faced increased competition from rivals such as Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa. The landscape shifted when Google began to phase out Assistant in favor of Gemini, which is designed to offer a more comprehensive multimodal experience.
As Gemini evolved, some features of Google Assistant were initially removed, leading to concerns about the transition. However, Google has committed to enhancing Gemini and addressing early shortcomings, promising to reintegrate key features from Google Assistant into the new AI framework. The latest update, which allows users to set Routines via voice commands without invoking the previous assistant, is a testament to this ongoing evolution.
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