Kerry Wan/ZDNET
Ahead of this Tuesday’s Google I/O developer conference, where AI is expected to be the star of the show, Google unveiled a massive Gemini update on its Android Show event, further expanding the AI assistant’s availability across the Google ecosystem of devices.
Here’s a rundown of the most notable features coming to various products, from smartwatches to cars.
1. WearOS
Max Buondonno/ZDNET
For starters, Google announced that Gemini will be coming to WearOS smartwatches later this year. This will allow users to take advantage of Gemini’s conversational capabilities and talk to their watches naturally. The biggest advantage is that users can take advantage of hands-free assistance without the help of their phones.
Also: The best Android smartwatches: Expert tested and reviewed
Some examples Google offers include setting reminders, getting assistance when your hands are covered in flour while cooking, or in the middle of a workout.
2. Android Auto
Kerry Wan/ZDNET
Similarly, Android Auto’s voice assistant is being upgraded to Gemini from Google Assistant, allowing for hands-free conversational assistance in the car, too. Google suggests some useful Gemini opportunities on the road, including finding a destination through a specific description, such as “a charging station on the way to the post office that’s also near a park,” and summarizing and even translating your text messages.
Also: Finally, I found an Android Auto adapter that’s highly functional, lag-free, and priced well
Because Gemini Live can have multi-turn conversations with users, you can also use it to just chat about current events, get a personalized news digest, or get the answer to any burning question on your mind. This update is also coming soon. According to Google, Gemini will be available on Android Auto in the coming months, followed by cars with Google built-in.
3. Gemini on TV
Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNET
You guessed it: Gemini will also be available on your Google TV later this year, making the same conversational capabilities available on the biggest screen in your home. Beyond the Gemini assistance it typically gives, Gemini can also help with TV recommendations, such as finding the best content to watch that suits specific criteria.
Also: Netflix’s new AI search feature makes it easier to find what to watch
I had the opportunity to demo this experience at CES 2025 and was impressed with how much more helpful a voice assistant on your TV is when it can use conversational terms instead of keywords. In my demo, the voice assistant asked to see movies like Jurassic Park, but for kids, and Gemini immediately showed results.
4. Gemini with Android XR
Kerry Wan/ZDNET
Google is also launching a new platform built in collaboration with Samsung that combines Gemini with Android XR, Google’s operating platform for extended reality devices (XR) such as headsets.
When Samsung’s first headset launches later this year, Gemini will be able to offer users its advanced assistance while also taking advantage of the XR element, surrounding them with helpful content. According to Google, the new platform will also be used on future devices, including headsets, glasses, and everything in between.
Want more stories about AI? Sign up for Innovation, our weekly newsletter.
