Gemini app improves voice assistants, but with limitations and conditions

Google recently rebranded its Bard chatbot to Gemini, introducing new mobile apps for Android and iOS. Despite not being officially available in India, there's a workaround for quick access.

The app, sized at around 2MB, functions more like a shortcut, likely utilizing components from the Google app already on users' phones. Setting it up is straightforward, enabling users to invoke Gemini similar to the previous Assistant.

Google's approach with Gemini is distinct. Rather than entirely replacing Assistant, it retains it for tasks beyond Gemini's capabilities. This differs from Microsoft's bold move of replacing Cortana with Copilot on Windows, although the effectiveness of this strategy remains uncertain.

While AI chatbots excel at certain tasks like email summarization, their performance varies in other areas. Google's strategy involves integrating Gemini alongside Assistant, with each handling tasks suited to their strengths.

Using Gemini feels familiar to habitual Assistant users, with both responding swiftly to commands. Minor discrepancies exist, such as speed differences in opening documents from Google Drive.

Gemini's integration with Google's ecosystem is seamless, enhancing productivity by accessing Gmail and Drive. It excels in tasks like email search, news updates, and document analysis, with a built-in fact-checking feature.

Overall, Gemini enhances the capabilities of Google Assistant, offering improved functionality through chatbot enhancements. As Google refines Gemini, it has the potential to become a game-changer, providing personalized assistance and deep integration within Google's ecosystem