what you need to know
- Since Google released the Gemini app for Android, it’s only been available on smartphones, with tablets being especially left out.
- The latest version of the Google Search app contains several new references to Gemini working on tablets.
- While an exact release date is unclear, Gemini will likely appear on Pixel tablets first and may gain third-party support later.
After Google revamped Gemini with new mobile apps, everyone started wondering where the AI assistant would show up next. There have been reports and hints in the past that Gemini would appear on Google Assistant earbuds, tablets, or smart displays. However, new references to Gemini on tablets in the latest version of the Google Search app suggest a release may be imminent.
9to5Google discovered some strings in version 15.12 of the Google Search app that directly outline how Gemini works on tablets. “While Gemini is a digital assistant hosted by Google apps on this tablet, it has access to certain system permissions and data,” the tip explains, “such as the dialer, call and message logs, and contacts (to help you Stay connected), with apps installed like Clock (to control alarms and timers) and on-screen content (to help you take action).”
As is the case with Gemini on other platforms, there is a disclaimer that Gemini is still learning. Google also said that Google Assistant may be used in situations where Gemini is unable to provide assistance and certain Assistant features are unavailable.
9to5Google successfully got Gemini up and running on a Pixel tablet using the latest version of the Google search app. Overall, the experience of using the Gemini on a tablet is surprisingly similar to the experience of using it on a large-screen foldable device like the Pixel Fold. It’s worth noting that even though Gemini is installed on the Pixel tablet, Google Assistant is still the default voice assistant. This is in line with Google’s previous guidance that smart devices will still use Google Assistant.
“Even if you choose to use Gemini as your mobile assistant, Gemini will not replace the Google Assistant on your other devices,” Google explains in a support document. “On other non-mobile devices, including smart displays, Speakers, TVs, cars, smartwatches, headphones and earbuds with Google Assistant built-in, and Pixel tablets, Google Assistant will continue to respond to ‘Hey Google.'”
The Pixel tablet is an interesting device because it’s a standalone tablet and smart home hub. Since Gemini is currently limited in its Assistant-based features, it makes sense that Google isn’t ready to completely replace Gemini’s Assistant on Pixel tablets just yet.
While an official release date is unclear, Google appears to be gearing up for a Gemini launch on the tablet. Pixel tablets will almost certainly be among the first to support Gemini, but third-party devices may also be supported.