For Android users looking to explore new horizons in virtual assistance, the Meta AI app offers an intriguing alternative to the more commonly used options like Gemini or Google Assistant. If you have the latest version of the Meta AI app installed on your device—specifically version 230.0.0.36.164 or later—transforming your digital assistant experience is just a few taps away.
How to make Meta AI your default digital assistant on Android
To begin, ensure that the Meta AI app is present on your Android phone. If you haven’t installed it yet, simply follow this link to download it from the Google Play Store. Once the app is on your device, you’ll want to verify its version. Navigate to Settings > Apps > See all apps, locate Meta AI, and tap on it to access the app info page. Scroll down to find the version number; remember, you need version 230.0.0.36.164 or later to proceed.
If your app meets the version requirement, head over to Settings > Apps > Default apps > Digital assistant. Here, you will see a list of available digital assistants, which includes:
- None
- Amazon Alexa
- Bing
- ChatGPT
- DuckDuckGo
- Firefox
- Meta AI
- Perplexity
To select Meta AI, simply tap the button next to its name until it is filled in. It’s important to note that setting Meta AI as your default assistant will only launch the app, similar to tapping its icon. Unlike some other assistants, it does not provide a dedicated interface for typing or voice queries directly within the app.
While voice input is not available within the Meta AI app itself, you can still utilize the voice input feature on your keyboard. This may leave you pondering the advantages of choosing Meta AI over established competitors like Google Assistant or Gemini. With Meta AI, you can leverage text prompts to generate photos or videos, and even create Reels for Instagram and Facebook, thanks to its integration with Meta’s ecosystem.
Once you’ve set Meta AI as your default assistant, accessing it is straightforward. A long press on your phone’s power button will open the app, or if you prefer the traditional three-button navigation, a tap and hold on the home button will do the trick. For those using gesture navigation, swiping from one of the bottom corners will bring up the default app, which in this case is Meta AI.
Gemini might be the best digital assistant on most Android phones
After making Meta AI your default assistant, you can expect AI-generated responses to your inquiries. However, for tasks like setting timers or alarms, you will need to open the Clock app directly. Personally, I find that setting my Pixel to use Gemini as the default digital assistant enhances my experience. To do this, open the Google app, tap on the personal icon in the upper right corner, and navigate to Settings > Gemini > Digital assistants from Google to select Gemini. Keep in mind that you will still use the phrase “Hello Google” to activate Gemini, as there is no separate option available for it.
While Gemini excels at answering questions, it also seamlessly handles tasks like setting alarms or timers through voice input, leveraging Google Assistant’s capabilities. This versatility makes it a compelling choice for many users seeking a reliable digital assistant experience.
