Apps
Google’s Gemini LLM is headed to Messages app in Beta
Google has started bringing its Gemini LLM to the Messages app in Beta. The company seems to be gradually rolling out Gemini AI capabilities to Android’s native Messages application on the Beta channel.
Thanks to Gemini LLM, Google Messages users can text with the AI to draft messages, brainstorm ideas, plan events, or just have a conversation. Despite being a Beta tester, you have to fulfill some requirements to be eligible for AI in Messages.
These requirements include:
- An eligible Android phone:
- Pixel 6 or later
- Pixel Fold
- Samsung Galaxy S22, Galaxy S23 or Galaxy S24
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip or Z Fold
- Your phone’s language is set to English (or French if you live in Canada)
- The latest version of Google Messages
- A personal Google Account that you manage on your own.
- Can’t be a Google Account managed by Family Link or with a Google Workspace account
- Be 18 years old or older
- Have RCS chats turned on
Eligible consumers completing requirements will get notified by the Messages app. Once available, you should see a chat with Gemini button or an option for Gemini after you tap on “Start chat.”
The company says you can text Gemini something like “Suggest a 3-course dinner menu that’s impressive but manageable for a novice cook. Dietary restriction: vegetarian,” the chatbot will then send an answer back to you.
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Apps
Google Maps lets you report traffic jams and accidents on Apple CarPlay, but not on Android Auto
Google just added a feature that lets you report accidents, slowdowns, and other road issues directly from your car’s display. Well, it is currently limited to Google Maps on Apple CarPlay.
Similar to Waze, Google Maps on CarPlay now has a button to report accidents, slowdowns, construction, lane closures, stalled vehicles, objects on the road, and even speed traps. Just like before, you can still see reports from other drivers about these issues on your route.
By reporting issues, you can help other drivers avoid traffic jams and accidents. With everyone contributing information, Google Maps can provide more accurate traffic conditions and ETAs.
Unfortunately, Android Auto users are still left out. We’ve been asking Google to add this feature for a while now, so hopefully it’s coming soon!
This feature is new and might not be available to everyone yet. In the meantime, stay safe on the roads and report any issues you see on Google Maps if you’re using CarPlay.
Apps
Google working on a new video editing feature for its Photo app
Google Photos app is about to take your video editing a step further. A hidden feature found in app version 6.90 hints at an upcoming video speed editor (via Android Authority). This means you’ll be able to ditch third-party apps and adjust video playback directly within Google Photos.
The video editor offers various speeds like 1/4x for super slow-mo or 4x for fast-forwarding. You can even choose to adjust the entire video or just a specific section, perfect for highlighting key moments. It’s still under development, so expect a more user-friendly icon instead of the current “1x” placeholder.
Additionally, future updates might allow you to fine-tune the speed of different parts within the same video for even more control.
This upcoming video speed editor marks a significant upgrade for Google Photos, making it a more comprehensive video editing tool. Keep an eye out for this update to add some fun and flexibility to your video editing experience.
Apps
Google Contacts app testing new Besties Widget
Contacts app’s version 4.35 suggests that Google is working on a Besties Widget. The app’s forthcoming Besties Widget has the exact layout as the Favorite widget and shows starred contacts.
9to5Google spotted that Google Contacts for Android will soon get a new Besties Widget. Meanwhile, the APKTeardown has not revealed the functionality or widget design.
It is expected that the new Besties Widget will replace the Favorite widget. As of now, the widget hasn’t reached its functional stage, however, a future update to the app will bring significant development.
It is assumed that the widget’s development is currently in quite early phases. Recently, the Contacts app updated its individual contact widget with the ability to display notifications.
You can download the app from the Google Play Store for your Android device for free.
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