Forget Siri — Google just brought its Gemini widgets to the iPhone – Tom’s Guide

Update the app to make the switch
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
Google has recently enhanced its Gemini AI assistant for iOS, introducing lock screen widgets that offer iPhone and iPad users more immediate access to its features.This strategic move undoubtedly aims to position Gemini as a formidable alternative to Apple’s Siri and OpenAI’s ChatGPT, especially as Apple faces challenges in advancing Siri’s capabilities.The latest update to the Gemini app introduces six circular lock screen widgets, each designed to facilitate quick access to specific functionalities.These widgets can be customized as corner buttons on the lock screen or within the Control Center, allowing users to tailor their Gemini experience to their preferences.Introducing these widgets follows a series of updates aimed at integrating Gemini more deeply into the iOS ecosystem. The standalone Gemini app for iOS launch last November, meant that users could effectively interact with the AI assistant without navigating through the main Google app.This standalone app offers a straightforward interface with a chat window and a history of previous interactions, supporting text, voice, and camera inputs.The launch of iOS 18 revamped the Google Search widget to include customizable shortcuts, one of which being Gemini. This enhancement enables users to launch Gemini directly from their home screen, making AI-driven assistance easily accessible.Be AI savvy with your weekly newsletter summing up all the biggest AI news you need to know. Plus, analysis from our AI editor and tips on how to use the latest AI tools!Google’s efforts to integrate Gemini into iOS devices appear to be a calculated strategy to capitalize on Siri’s current limitations.Reports indicate that Apple is experiencing slow progress in developing a more advanced version of Siri, with a significant overhaul potentially years away.By enhancing Gemini’s accessibility and functionality on iOS, it’s evident that Google hopes to attract users seeking a different AI assistant.I initially found it challenging to locate and enable a few of the Gemini widgets, but I quickly discovered that they were common. However, Google has provided guidance through its support channels, advising users to ensure they have the latest version of the Gemini app installed and that their device is running the most recent iOS update.As AI assistants become increasingly integral to daily life, the competition among tech giants to provide the most efficient and user-friendly options intensifies.The continuous development and refinement of AI assistants like Gemini and Siri will likely lead to more personalized and seamless user experiences.For iOS users, the availability of alternatives such as Gemini allows them to choose an AI assistant that best aligns with their preferences and requirements.Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.Forget ChatGPT — Google Gemini can now see the world with live video and screen-sharingGemini AI is a game-changer — 9 prompts to get started NYT Connections today hints and answers — Wednesday, March 5 (#633)
Tom’s Guide is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site.
©
Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street,
New York,
NY 10036.

Source: https://www.tomsguide.com/ai/forget-siri-google-brings-gemini-widgets-to-iphone