Google Expands Gemini AI Access to iPhone Users
Google has introduced Gemini AI widgets for iPhone, allowing users to access the AI assistant right from the lock screen. This update, first spotted by 9to5Google, gives iPhone users a taste of Google’s AI capabilities at a time when Apple’s AI-powered Siri upgrade faces delays until 2027.
Gemini Live Brings Real-Time AI Interaction to iPhones
With the new update, iPhone users can now interact with Gemini Live before unlocking their phone. Gemini Live is Google’s near real-time voice interaction feature that lets users engage in voice-based conversations with the AI assistant.
Previously, ChatGPT’s iOS app allowed similar lock screen access with its Advanced Voice Mode. Now, Google is offering an alternative, positioning Gemini as a potential Siri competitor.
What Do the New Gemini Widgets Offer?
Google has introduced several Gemini widgets that make AI interactions more seamless for iPhone users. These include:
- Talk Live: Engage in real-time voice conversations with Gemini.
- Type Prompt: Quickly type a question or request to Gemini.
- Open Mic: Set reminders, create calendar events, and more using voice commands.
- Use Camera: Snap a photo and ask Gemini to analyze it.
- Share Image: Upload an image to get insights or generate AI art.
- Share File: Use files to ask detailed questions or get AI-generated responses.
These widgets simplify AI interaction, offering a new way to integrate smart assistants into daily tasks.
Google’s Strategy to Challenge Siri and ChatGPT
With Apple’s AI advancements delayed, Google is making a strong push to position Gemini as an alternative for iPhone users. The company has even started advertising Gemini on Apple-focused tech podcasts, aiming to capture more users from Apple’s ecosystem.
While Apple’s future AI plans could integrate deeply with iOS, Google’s Gemini provides immediate AI assistance, potentially filling the gap for users looking for smarter voice interactions today.
Gemini’s AI Expands to Android
Google has also announced that later in March, Gemini users on Android will be able to ask questions about videos and onscreen content. This feature, part of Google DeepMind’s Project Astra, will be available to subscribers of the $20-per-month Gemini Advanced plan.
By offering more advanced AI-powered features, Google is strengthening its foothold in the AI assistant market across both iOS and Android platforms.
A New AI Era for iPhone Users?
Google’s move to bring Gemini widgets to iPhone’s lock screen highlights the growing competition in the AI assistant space. With Apple’s Siri improvements delayed, iPhone users now have an alternative AI-powered assistant with features beyond what Siri currently offers.
Whether Gemini can truly replace Siri remains to be seen, but Google is certainly making it easier for iPhone users to experience advanced AI right now.
