Google Assistant Archives

AppWizard

February 20, 2025

Buckle up: Android Automotive has 70 new apps to keep you entertained (in the parking lot)

Google will soon introduce nearly 70 new applications for Android Automotive, increasing the total number of available apps to nearly 300. The new apps include popular streaming and gaming titles like Farm Heroes Saga, Paramount Plus, Plex, F1 TV, Red Bull TV, and NBC News. These apps will only function when the vehicle is parked to ensure safety. Android Automotive is an embedded operating system in vehicles, distinct from Android Auto, which connects a phone to a vehicle. Currently, around 100 vehicle models feature Android Automotive, including the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado, 2023 Honda Accord, 2025 Ford Explorer, and 2024 Nissan Rogue. The rollout of the new apps will initially target select Volvo and Polestar models, with broader availability expected soon. Google is working with various vehicle manufacturers to enhance the app ecosystem for automotive screens.

AppWizard

February 19, 2025

Your Android Automotive dashboard just got a lot more fun with these new apps

Google has introduced a significant expansion of applications for Android Automotive, enhancing the in-car experience for drivers and passengers in vehicles with Google built-in technology. This rollout includes dozens of new applications that can be accessed while the vehicle is parked, unlike Android Auto, which requires a smartphone connection. Android Automotive operates directly on the car's infotainment system, providing pre-installed access to services like Google Maps and Google Assistant. The new initiative, called the "car-ready mobile apps program," involves reviewing the Google Play Store for applications optimized for larger displays. If deemed safe for use in parked vehicles, these applications will be made available through the Play Store in cars running Android Automotive. Starting this week, drivers of select Volvo and Polestar models can download various new applications, including streaming services and light games. Confirmed car-compatible applications include: - Farm Heroes Saga - F1 TV - Roblox - Paramount Plus - Avatar World - Solitaire Grand Harvest - Plex - Fubo - Philo - 2 3 4 Player Mini Games - FOX Nation - NBC News - BritBox - Lifetime - Chess - FanDuel Sports Network - A&E - Dropout - HISTORY: Shows & Documentaries - sand:box

AppWizard

December 21, 2024

Google’s counteroffer to the government trying to break it up is unbundling Android apps

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has proposed that Google divest its Chrome browser as part of addressing alleged antitrust violations. In response, Google has suggested alternative proposals that focus on its financial arrangements with partners like Apple and Mozilla, rather than breaking up its products. Google's proposed remedies include a three-year prohibition on bundling licenses for Chrome, Search, and Google Play with other applications, while still allowing payments for default search placement in browsers. Google plans to appeal a ruling by Judge Amit Mehta that labeled it a monopolist and intends to submit a revised proposal by March 7th before a trial in April.

AppWizard

December 6, 2024

How to change Gemini’s voice on Android

Google's Gemini assistant is becoming a key feature of Android 15, potentially replacing the traditional Google Assistant. It allows for conversational exchanges through Gemini Live and can analyze documents. Users can customize Gemini's voice within the Gemini app, which affects the voice used in Gemini Live and any applications that integrate with it, including Google Assistant. The Google Pixel 9 series is highlighted as the best device for utilizing Gemini, offering superior support for features like Gemini Nano and AI-enhanced capabilities.

AppWizard

December 5, 2024

Android 15’s first major update has arrived

New features are being introduced to Android phones and Pixel devices, including: - Expressive Captions: Descriptive video captions that include annotations for non-verbal moments, such as [gasp] or [applause]. - Lookout App Enhancements: The Lookout app will now feature the Gemini 1.5 model for more detailed audio descriptions of photos and objects for users with low vision or blindness. - Gemini Assistant Expansions: New extensions for Gemini Assistant, including a Spotify extension for music playback and a Utilities extension for performing tasks like making calls and sending emails. - Pixel 9 Features: The call screening feature now includes contextual reply suggestions, and the Screenshots app allows users to save searches made with the Circle to Search feature and suggests search phrases based on saved screenshots. - Updates for Previous Pixel Models: Features like Identity Check for additional security are rolling out for Pixel 6 and newer devices. - Compatibility: The updates are not linked to Android 15 and are supported by various earlier Android versions.

AppWizard

December 3, 2024

Gemini app widely rolling out Utilities Extension on Android

The "Utilities" Gemini Extension has been rolled out for the Gemini app, enhancing functionality for Android users by eliminating the need for Google Assistant for basic tasks. Users can activate the extension through the app's multitasking feature. Once enabled, it allows users to perform various tasks directly from the lock screen, such as setting alarms, controlling device features, checking battery levels, taking photos, and managing media playback. The extension also enables the app to extract information from Pixel Screenshots. Users can issue multiple commands at once, open websites and apps, control device features, take photos, and manage alarms and timers. The extension prioritizes the Google Clock app for alarm and timer functions.

AppWizard

November 24, 2024

Android 16 could give Gemini more control over apps – and other AI upgrades are rumored too

The Google Gemini app is set to receive enhancements that will integrate more features similar to Google Assistant while utilizing generative AI. The developer preview of Android 16 has introduced new APIs that may give Gemini greater control over various applications on Android devices. Currently, Gemini interacts with apps like YouTube, Google Maps, Gmail, Spotify, and WhatsApp through extensions, but the new APIs would allow developers to create additional integrations. There are also reports of an upgraded Gemini Live voice mode that could improve user engagement with YouTube content, enabling natural conversations about videos. Potential interface changes may allow users to pause and resume conversations from notifications in the status bar, enhancing the conversational experience.

AppWizard

November 22, 2024

Android 16 could give Gemini the power over apps Assistant never got

Google is enhancing its Gemini chatbot and large language model, making it the default assistant on many Android devices. Currently, Gemini can interact with external services through Extensions, but its control over Android applications is limited. The upcoming Android 16 will introduce a new API that allows services like Gemini to perform actions within applications. Android 16 DP1 has revealed new APIs for "app functions," which represent specific capabilities of applications that can be integrated into system features. Applications will define these functions, and they will be accessible through Android's App Search framework. To execute these functions, applications need specific permissions, which are restricted to system applications. The new app functions feature could enable Gemini to control applications more effectively than Google Assistant has in the past, potentially allowing for multitasking and complex actions. The success of Gemini as an AI agent will depend on app developers adopting this functionality.

AppWizard

November 7, 2024

Google is readying ‘AI Replies’ for Call Screen in Pixel Phone app

Google is enhancing the Call Screen feature in the Pixel Phone app with 'AI Replies.' This feature will allow users to respond to calls without answering, using AI-generated smart replies based on the caller's responses. Code strings related to AI Replies were discovered in the latest beta version of the Phone app, indicating that Google may utilize its Gemini Nano technology for this functionality. Users will have the option to enable or disable AI Replies. Details on how these AI responses will differ from current options and the timeline for public release are not yet available.

AppWizard

November 1, 2024

Gemini can adjust your smart home accessories with Google Home integration

Google is rolling out new Gemini extensions, particularly for the Google Home app, starting this week for participants in the Public Preview on Android. Gemini will replace Google Assistant, allowing users to control smart home devices using natural language. The integration enables actions like closing blinds or starting a robot vacuum without needing Google Assistant. Users can access the Google Home extension by enrolling in the Public Preview through the app. This feature is currently available only on Android phones and supports English prompts, but does not control smart security devices. The broader release is expected soon.