Google's Gemini App Beta Adds Drag and Drop Feature for Split-Screen Use

Apps & Games / Mobile / Android / Google's Gemini App Beta Adds Drag and Drop Feature for Split-Screen Use
03 Jul 2024

Google's latest Gemini app beta version is showing signs of a new "drag and drop" feature in development for Android. This innovative addition would allow users to make a copy of Gemini's initial pop-up window and place it at the top of their display for split-screen use.

Boosting Gemini's Abilities

A recent find in Gemini's code on Android reveals Google's apparent interest in enhancing its capabilities by offering a split-screen addition. A deep dive into the Gemini app on Android's latest beta version by Android Authority showcases a feature that lets users split the AI's initial pop-up window. Although it's unclear when this feature will roll out, version 15.26.34 indicates that users can "drag and drop" a new window by long-pressing the pop-up's handle.

The original window remains at the bottom with the same design that Android users are accustomed to seeing when activating Gemini through its swipe command. In testing, the publication notes that users can converse with Gemini in both windows without any issues. Dragging the bottom window up by its handle will remove the cloned copy and vice versa.

While the beta's code shows Gemini's cloned pop-up window on a phone's split view, it seems likely that this feature will also arrive for tablets. Additionally, it appears that this won't be exclusive to Google Pixel devices, as a string referencing Samsung was found for this "drag and drop" feature.

In June, Google finally started rolling out its AI Gemini for Messages on more phones. Devices with 6GB of RAM or more can utilize the software's abilities, such as drafting text messages or asking questions about any topic. Conversing with Gemini in Messages will create its own thread for easy rediscovery. For a while, the AI was only available in Messages for Pixel and Galaxy devices.

Gemini in Education

Google has also highlighted its efforts to bring Gemini's AI capabilities to the educational sector by incorporating teen student accounts and tools for teachers. Students will soon be able to ask Gemini questions, with guardrails in place to ensure child safety. Tools for teachers include an enhanced Read Along feature in classrooms and the ability to assign reading material to students based on their reading data.

The expansion of Gemini's features and its integration into various devices and sectors underscores Google's commitment to making AI more accessible and functional for a broader audience. As the development continues, users can look forward to more innovative features that enhance their digital experience.

Update: 03 Jul 2024