Gemini AI features in Google Messages expanded with Workspace, YouTube, and Maps

According to 9to5Google, Google has started rolling out new features of Google Messages based on Gemini artificial intelligence. Over the past few days, users of the stable version of the app have started to access the assistant, which is offered as the first contact to start a new chat.

Here's What We Know

Once the user agrees to the terms and conditions, users will see the usual messaging interface with a gallery and emojis. Although there is support for uploading images, audio notes are not yet available.

Reportedly, Gemini in Messages should help users compose messages, plan events, answer questions, or simply engage in correspondence. You could see similar functionality in the now-defunct Google Allo messenger, which had support for Google Assistant, but Gemini cannot be added to group chats.

The feature supports such Gemini extensions as Workspace (e.g. Gmail), YouTube, and Google Maps, although the YouTube Music extension is missing. Users can leave feedback on replies by long-pressing their thumb up or down, with additional options for marking or forwarding messages

Conversations with Gemini take place over RCS, which must be enabled, but they are not end-to-end encrypted. In addition, Gemini is not accessible via the web version of Google Messages or the Wear OS app.

The global rollout does not include EEA countries, the UK, Switzerland, and India, but does include support for English and French in Canada. Gemini has been available to beta users since March.

Sources: livemint.com, 9to5Google