Google’s Gemini AI Expands with Utilities Extension for Smartphone Task Management

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Google’s Gemini AI assistant has received a significant update with the introduction of a Utilities extension, enabling it to manage a range of smartphone tasks. Announced earlier this year at the Google I/O event, this extension allows the AI assistant to control functions like setting alarms and timers, adjusting volume, and opening the camera directly through voice commands. While the feature has already started appearing on select devices, a broader rollout is expected over the coming weeks, marking an important step forward in enhancing Gemini’s functionality for Android users.

To use the Utilities extension, users must ensure that Gemini is set as the default assistant on their Android devices. The feature is integrated into the Gemini app, leveraging the device’s virtual assistant framework to execute commands. However, it currently only supports prompts in English, which could limit accessibility for users who prefer other languages. Google has not yet announced plans for multi-language support but is expected to expand its capabilities in future updates to cater to its global audience.

This update addresses a long-standing limitation of the Gemini AI assistant, which previously could not handle basic device-related tasks such as setting an alarm or launching the camera. Before this extension, users had to rely on app-specific integrations or revert to Google Assistant to perform these actions, which disrupted the seamless experience Gemini aimed to provide. The new Utilities extension eliminates the need for such workarounds, making Gemini a more complete and versatile tool for Android users.

With the addition of the Utilities extension, Google has taken a crucial step toward closing the gap between Gemini and its competitors, such as Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa, which already offer extensive device control features. By integrating these core functions, Google is making Gemini more appealing to users who prioritize convenience and efficiency in their virtual assistants. As the rollout progresses, the Utilities extension has the potential to elevate Gemini’s role as a central hub for managing daily smartphone tasks, strengthening its position in the AI assistant market.