Recently, Google announced an update to its AI assistant Gemini, introducing the capability to perform complex tasks across multiple applications. Simultaneously, Samsung launched its Galaxy S25 series smartphones, which feature Gemini as the default built-in assistant for the first time, replacing Bixby, which has been moved to the app drawer. This update is part of a broader set of improvements by Google, including enhancements to the AI-powered Circle to Search feature.
Gemini can now handle more intricate cross-modal tasks. Users can issue a single command to find an Italian restaurant that allows dogs and send the information to a friend, or check the schedule of an NFL team and add it to their calendar.
The cross-app support leverages Gemini's existing app extension capabilities, currently available across numerous Google apps and some third-party apps like WhatsApp and Spotify. For S25 series users, this update includes Samsung’s own apps such as Samsung Calendar, Notes, Reminders, and Clock. Additionally, multi-app extensions are now accessible to all Gemini users on web, Android, and iOS platforms.
Gemini Live, the voice conversation mode of the assistant, has also been enhanced but is currently limited to Galaxy S25, S24 series phones, and Google Pixel 9 series devices. Users of these devices can share images, files, and YouTube videos within chat interfaces and receive feedback from Gemini. Google also revealed that features like screen sharing and live video streaming under Project Astra will be available on Android devices with Gemini in the coming months.
With these upgrades, Samsung has designated Gemini as the default virtual assistant on the new S25 series phones, officially replacing Bixby. Although the Bixby app remains pre-installed, long-pressing the power button will now open Gemini by default.
Furthermore, Circle to Search has been improved to automatically recognize phone numbers, email addresses, and URLs, making them easier to interact with. The AI overview in search results has been expanded to cover more types of visual searches, increasing the likelihood of generating AI overviews for images of locations, artworks, or objects.
Google also introduced several changes aimed at making Android devices more compatible with braille screen readers and hearing aids.
This update was announced during the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event, where the Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra models were unveiled. Earlier, both companies had also introduced a new LTE model of the Galaxy Watch 7 designed specifically for children, featuring kid-friendly apps and watch faces along with enhanced parental controls.
