Score over Assistant, Google’s Gemini is making its way to previous-generation Pixel Buds
What you need to know
- Google recently sent emails to Pixel Bud owners, detailing an upcoming update that will add Gemini’s AI smarts to the small devices.
- Gemini is offered as an alternative to the standard assistant for hands-free, personal assistance when needed.
- The update also changes the “Hey Google” voice command, which will soon function based on your phone’s settings.
Google’s latest AI model is preparing to enter Assistant territory and do more for you when you’re working or on the go.
The company started sending emails to Pixel Buds owners this week, highlighting the upcoming addition of Gemini to the earbuds (via 9to5Google). Android Central also received this email, stating that users can take advantage of Gemini’s help if it is set as the “default” helper on their phone. Google warns that some features “may function differently” if Gemini is chosen over Assistant.
Additionally, Google states: “Your Android phone must be unlocked and connected to your Pixel Buds while you’re wearing them.” The email adds that this will eliminate the need to constantly unlock your phone when you want to talk to Gemini. Additionally, if your earbuds are disconnected from your phone, you’ll lose Gemini’s hands-free assistance.
Users can bypass this by using the “Requires only one unlock” option in the Assistant settings of your Pixel Buds. Additionally, Google states that Gemini will not recognize the “On Headphones” option in the “Personal Results” settings. However, the default Google Assistant will still adhere to that setting.
The company is also changing the way the “Hey Google” command works for the Pixel Buds. Google says your “Hey Google” settings on your phone now determine whether the AI can help you through your Pixel Buds. This will reportedly impact Gemini in addition to the regular assistant.
The publication states that the updates that bring Gemini and “Hey Google” command changes affect the Pixel Buds, the Pixel Buds Pro, and the Pixel Buds A series.
Google launched the Pixel Buds Pro 2 in August and those small devices have rich integration with Gemini. Shifting the rest of the Pixel Buds lineup to Gemini seems like an expected approach, especially since it’s arrived all over the Assistant.
In other news, the original Pixel Buds Pro’s notification capabilities have gone through some turbulent times lately, as detailed by user reports. Users who tried to have Assistant read out their notifications were met with an error and a lack of audible information. This concerned the touch-and-hold capabilities of the device.
The Assistant told users to say out loud “Hey Google, read notifications” if they needed such information. After questioning, Google confirmed to Android Central that the change would remain as it was implemented based on user feedback. The press-and-hold feature will no longer work, but it now appears that the change was in light of bigger plans.
The sequel you’ve been waiting for
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 takes what was good about the first edition and spins it irresistibly. The device offers deeper, richer sound and bass with excellent volume/power. Google has even deeply integrated the Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Gemini for personalized AI assistance when needed.
