As the Gemini feature makes its debut across all Pixel Buds, users should take note that the capability for spoken notifications is limited to a select group of messaging applications. Currently, Gemini supports the following apps:
- Google Chat
- Google Messages
- Google Voice
- Messenger
This marks a shift from the previous functionality offered by Google Assistant on Pixel Buds, which allowed users to receive notifications from any application, including calendar events and news alerts. Google has stated that this adjustment is part of a broader initiative to revamp the notifications experience, focusing on a more streamlined approach centered around messaging.
Assistant vs. Gemini
Looking ahead, Google has expressed enthusiasm about the potential of Gemini to enhance the notification experience for both messaging and non-messaging applications. The integration of large language models (LLMs) to summarize notifications presents an exciting opportunity for future developments.
However, for many current Pixel Buds users, the introduction of Gemini may feel like a step back. The transition follows Google’s decision to eliminate the touch-and-hold gesture for alerts, replacing it with a voice command: “Hey Google, do I have any notifications?”
For those who prefer the previous functionality, it is still possible to revert to Google Assistant on Pixel Buds, although this requires disabling Gemini as the phone assistant. Previously, users could seamlessly utilize both Gemini and Assistant concurrently.
Additionally, owners of Pixel Buds (Pro and A-Series) should be aware that activating Gemini will automatically turn on their phone’s screen. Google has optimized this feature to facilitate longer conversations with Gemini by displaying a transcript. To mitigate accidental touches, the company has implemented measures to exclude certain functions when the screen is activated through Gemini voice commands.
