Google’s Gemini AI expands file management and smart home widget capabilities

Google is enhancing its Gemini AI with new features, making it more capable for users who want a versatile virtual assistant. Gemini, which initially offered basic document assistance and image generation, is now gearing up for deeper integration with user files and smart home devices.
Gemini Live for Document Interaction
Google is currently testing a feature called Gemini Live, aimed at making file management more interactive. With this update, users can upload various file types, such as text documents or spreadsheets, and conversationally engage with Gemini. Instead of just reading or summarizing the files, the AI can modify them based on user commands. For example, you could ask Gemini to extract key data points from a spreadsheet or summarize a lengthy document, making it much more efficient for professionals managing multiple files.
This enhanced feature, identified in recent updates of the Google app, hints at a more dynamic interface where users might soon be able to directly talk to Gemini about their files. Although not fully active yet, the development suggests a future where file-based tasks become much simpler, allowing users to ask for changes or information directly in real-time conversations with the AI.
Google Home’s Smart Widget
In parallel, Google is enhancing its smart home experience through the Google Home app. A new widget, internally named Home Summary, is under development to offer a streamlined overview of all smart devices connected to the Google ecosystem. This widget aims to use AI capabilities, possibly powered by Gemini, to present a summarized view of device statuses, such as temperature adjustments from Nest Thermostats or activity detected by Nest Cameras.
This move is part of Google’s effort to simplify smart home management, addressing user feedback on the current complexity when controlling multiple devices. The widget aims to provide a concise, AI-generated summary right on the home screen, giving users a quick glance at their smart home’s status without diving into the app. Although still in the testing phase, this feature reflects Google’s push to integrate AI deeply into daily digital experiences, making smart home management more intuitive and responsive.
What’s Next for Users?
Both features, Gemini Live and the Home Summary widget, are designed to be rolled out initially as part of Google’s testing programs. Users who subscribe to Gemini Advanced or participate in Google’s Public Preview may get early access. These updates are a significant part of Google’s strategy to expand its AI ecosystem, enhancing the utility of its apps and making everyday tasks easier for users.
Expect to see these features rolling out more broadly as Google continues to refine its offerings, likely with a focus on deeper integrations across its various apps and smart devices.
Google Meet gets a fresh new look with Material 3 design

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
Easy ways to change Android Auto’s look with light and dark themes

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 Drive and Files by Google get fresh updates for easier use

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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