Google enhances Gemini with Imagen 3 rollout, redesigned homescreen, and Chromecast Home Panel integration
Google has rolled out significant updates for Gemini users and those with Chromecast, bringing advanced features and a refined user experience. This includes the global availability of Imagen 3 for generating high-quality images, a streamlined Gemini homescreen redesign on Android, and the introduction of a Home Panel on Chromecast with Google TV through the Public Preview program.
Imagen 3 Now Available for All Gemini Users
As of late August, Google has enabled all Gemini users to generate images using the powerful Imagen 3 model. Imagen 3 was first unveiled at the Google I/O 2024 event in May and offers users three key features:
- Stunning image quality: Expect crisp details, vibrant colors, and fewer imperfections.
- Lifelike visuals: The generated images stand out with vivid, photorealistic elements.
- Diverse styles: Users can choose from various artistic styles, from classic oil paintings to modern digital illustrations.
To create an image, users can start prompts with phrases like “draw,” “generate,” or “create” and specify the style they want (e.g., “photorealistic watercolor painting” or “cartoon illustration”). Gemini confirms this by showing “Creating your image with Imagen 3” during the process. Once complete, the images can be downloaded with SynthID watermarking applied for authenticity.
Initially available only to Gemini Advanced, Business, and Enterprise users, the Imagen 3 feature is now accessible globally to all Gemini users, including those with free accounts. However, free accounts do not currently support generating images of people.
Redesigned Gemini Homescreen on Android
Google has also rolled out a significant redesign of the Gemini app for Android, simplifying the home screen for a more user-friendly experience.
The previous layout, which featured the “Gemini” or “Gemini Advanced” logo, a suggestions carousel, and a “Chats & Gems” section, has been replaced by a cleaner interface. Now, users are greeted with a simple “Hello, [name]” and a chat bubble icon in the top-left corner for easy access to conversation history. This design also extends to the Gemini web app.
The central text field, which is used to display a larger prompt (“Type, talk, or share a photo to Gemini Advanced”), is now more compact, allowing users to type, speak, or share photos in a single streamlined input field. The ‘plus’ icon remains for uploading files, while the Gemini Live feature stays in the corner, complete with an animated waveform. When expanded, the interface temporarily reverts to the previous design, adding a touch of familiarity.
This homescreen redesign first began appearing in late September and is now widely available to all Gemini users on Android. However, iOS users must wait a bit longer for this update.
Home Panel Comes to Chromecast with Google TV via Public Preview
In another notable update, Google is expanding its Home Panel feature, first introduced on Google TV Streamers, to Chromecast with Google TV devices. By joining the Public Preview program, users can access the Home Panel directly from Google TV Quick Settings, where it functions similarly to the “Favorites” tab in the Google Home app.
The Home Panel allows users to control smart devices like lights, thermostats, locks, cameras, plugs, vacuums, TVs, and speakers, making it a convenient hub for managing various smart home technologies.
Google had previously announced that the Home Panel would be coming to more Google TV devices, and Chromecast is the latest addition to this list. Users interested in trying out this feature can join the Public Preview by navigating to the “Settings” tab in the Google Home app (available on both Android and iOS), scrolling down to “Public Preview,” and enrolling in the program.
Home Panel Setup and Requirements
To use the Home Panel on your Chromecast with Google TV, there are a few eligibility requirements:
- Your Google TV profile must be part of a Home in the Google Home app.
- Kids’ profiles are not supported for the Home Panel.
- The device must be in standard mode (not apps-only or basic mode).
- You need to opt into the Home Panel feature via your Google TV device.
- There must be at least one smart home device aside from your Google TV connected to your Google Home setup.
As of now, the Home Panel is available on Google TV Streamers and Chromecast with Google TV, though it might take some time before all devices receive the update.
If users encounter issues during setup, Google recommends resetting certain system apps, such as Google TV and Ambient Mode, by clearing data and stopping the apps through the device’s settings. Once reset, the Home Panel tile should appear within 15-20 minutes.
With these updates, Google continues to improve user experiences across its platforms. The global availability of Imagen 3 for Gemini users, the simplified homescreen redesign on Android, and the Home Panel’s expansion to Chromecast with Google TV all demonstrate Google’s commitment to making its technologies more accessible and easier to use for a wide range of users.
Google Meet is getting a big update to its look, thanks to the new Material 3 design. This change brings a cleaner and more modern style to the video calling app, making it easier and more enjoyable to use.
With Material 3, Google Meet now has rounder buttons, softer colors, and better spacing between elements. The main controls, like the microphone, camera, and end call buttons, are now larger and easier to tap. The icons and text are also clearer, which helps users find what they need quickly during a call.
Another improvement is the new “expressive” color system. This feature lets the app’s colors match your device’s wallpaper or theme, giving each user a unique and personalized experience. The changes also make Google Meet more accessible, as the new design is easier to read and use for everyone, including people with vision difficulties.
These updates are rolling out to both web and mobile versions of Google Meet. Google says the new look will help people feel more comfortable and focused during their meetings. Overall, the Material 3 update makes Google Meet not only look better but also work better for all its users.
Android Auto is a helpful tool that lets you use your phone’s apps safely while driving. It connects your phone to your car’s screen, making it easier to use maps, music, and calls. One of the features many people like is the ability to change how Android Auto looks by switching between light and dark themes.
How to switch between light and dark themes
Android Auto offers two main themes: light and dark. The light theme uses brighter colors, which can make the screen easier to see during the day. The dark theme uses darker colors, which can be more comfortable for your eyes at night or in low light.
To change the theme, follow these steps:
- Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
- Go to the settings menu.
- Find the “Theme” option.
- Choose between “Light,” “Dark,” or “Set by car” (this lets your car decide the theme based on the time of day or your car’s settings).
Why themes matter
Using the right theme can make driving safer and more comfortable. The light theme is good for bright days, while the dark theme helps reduce glare at night. Having these options means you can pick what works best for you, making Android Auto easier to use in any condition.
In short, Android Auto’s theme options are simple to use and help you drive more safely by making the screen easy to see, no matter the time of day.
Google is rolling out some helpful updates to two of its popular apps: Google Drive and Files by Google. These changes are designed to make managing your files and watching videos much smoother.
First, Google Drive is getting a new video player. Now, when you upload a video to Drive and open it, you’ll notice a fresh look that matches Google’s latest design style. The controls, like play and pause, are easier to use and look cleaner. This update makes it simpler to watch videos directly in Drive without needing to download them first.
Meanwhile, the Files by Google app is also getting a makeover. The app is adopting Google’s Material 3 design, which means it looks brighter and more modern. The buttons and menus are easier to see and use, making it simpler to find, move, and organize your files. There are also new color options and improved icons, so everything feels more user-friendly.
Both updates show Google’s commitment to making its apps more helpful and enjoyable to use. Whether you’re watching videos in Drive or sorting files on your phone, these changes aim to save you time and make things less complicated. If you use these apps, keep an eye out for these new features—they should arrive soon!
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