Here's a glimpse of Gemini in Google Messages [Updated]

[Update: Google has provided extra clarification on some of Gemini’s capabilities. In the article, we stated that Gemini can’t upload images; however, Google stated that it can import image files. It can import JPG, PNG, and WebP files.

As for the section about Gemini in group chats, Google confirmed that Gemini simply isn’t meant for group chats, so it will not function when added to a group. Group chats are not sent to Gemini’s servers.]

Original Article:

It’s no little-known fact that Google is set to introduce Gemini into the entire Android ecosystem. One way it plans to do this is by implementing Gemini into core Google Apps, and Google Messages is one of the first apps up. Thanks to some sleuth work by AssembleDebug, we finally got a glimpse of Google’s vision for an AI-integrated messaging service.

Right now, this is still in the developmental stage, so there could be some major changes between now and the official launch. Also, we’re not sure if all of the features showcased will make it to the final product. So, you’re going to want to take this news cautiously.

Here is a glimpse at Gemini integrated into Google Messages

AssembleDebug was able to get a glimpse at several of the features that Gemini will bring to Google Messages. You will be able to access Gemini in a separate conversation. This is similar to Snapchat’s My AI. Using it will be just like using any other chatbot; you will type your query into the text field, press send, and wait for a text message-style response. However, this will differ from a regular chatbot because many of the responses will be tailored to text message conversations.

Maps integration

Looking at the screenshots below, we see Gemini generating several forms of responses. For example, in the first screenshot, we simply see the text “Find something nearby.” Under that, we see that Gemini was able to tap Google Maps to find nearby locations. It showed a list of nearby locations. What’s neat about this is the fact that each entry shows the name, a link to that location (we don’t know if it’s leading to that location’s website or if it’s leading to that location’s Google Maps profile), star rating, and hours of business.

Code generation

In the next screenshot, we see an example of the chatbot generating code. It generated a bash script to list files in Foldee. Under the code, we see an explanation. This shows Google’s commitment to helping AI users with their coding rather than just spitting out the code.

Emoji reactions

For the third screenshot, we see two things. Firstly, we see that it’s able to generate images within chat. So, you will be able to download these images from the conversation. Next, if you look at the top message in the same screenshot, we see Gemini reacting to an emoji with the text “Thanks for the thumbs-up”. That might not be the most useful feature, but it’s still a nice touch.

The last screenshot shows that Gemini in Google Messages will not be able to process uploaded images just yet. So, we are going to have to wait for that functionality.

Other things to note

One important thing to know about this feature is the fact that there’s a possible security risk. Using Gemini in Google Messages means that conversations will not be encrypted. So, there’s a slight chance that the messages you send to Gemini will be vulnerable.

In terms of availability, the news is a little bit disappointing. Currently, Google is testing this in the latest version of Google Messages (version messages.android_20240318_00_RC00.phone.openbeta_dynamic). So, if you’re not signed up for the Google Messages beta, then you will not be able to access the feature. Even if you currently have the beta, it still took tinkering and messing around with the software to activate Gemini in Google Messages.

Google said that it will start rolling out this feature to the beta version of the app, but the list of eligible devices is pretty limited. In order to use this feature, at least initially, you need to have a Pixel 6 or newer, Pixel Fold, Galaxy S22 or newer, or a Galaxy Z Flip/Fold or newer. We don’t know when Google plans on bringing this feature to more devices.