In a subtle yet impactful update, Google is enhancing user experience with the Gemini app on Android devices. Upon launching the app, the keyboard will now automatically appear, allowing users to dive straight into typing their prompts without any additional taps.
This adjustment comes as Gemini’s homepage primarily serves as a welcoming interface, ensuring that users won’t miss out on any essential functionalities. The familiar one-tap access to voice input and Gemini Live remains conveniently positioned higher on the screen, while the ‘plus’ menu continues to reside on the left side. Additionally, users can still find their Chats & Gems history at the top, alongside the model switcher and account menu for easy access to settings.
This quality-of-life enhancement is expected to streamline interactions, as many users open the app specifically for keyboard entry. For those who prefer voice input, a long-press of the phone’s power button or a corner swipe will activate the Gemini overlay, providing an alternative method for engagement.
The new keyboard functionality is currently being rolled out in the latest beta version (16.4.36) of the Google app, although it has yet to make its way to the stable channel. Furthermore, users will notice the “Talk Live about this” shortcut appearing above the “Ask Gemini” field when uploading images or PDF files, offering a convenient alternative to the Gemini overlay.
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