Google’s Gemini chatbot may have quietly launched on iOS in certain regions, with a standalone app spotted on the App Store. The Gemini app introduces a new feature called Gemini Live, which enables users to engage in a free-flowing voice conversation with the AI. The app’s main screen showcases a serene white background with a soft glow from the bottom. Upon opening the app, users are prompted to initiate a conversation by saying “Hey Gemini” or tapping on the screen. The app offers a selection of 10 voices, allowing users to choose from various tones, accents, and styles to personalize their experience.
You can also change the settings within the app to tweak options like how often you want to hear the AI’s responses, whether your speaking interrupts Gemini Live, and if you can carry on conversations while your phone is locked with its screen off. Gemini also comes with integrations to your apps, letting you create shopping lists or update the calendar without launching a separate app. If you’re a Jieshuo or TalkBack screen reader user, Gemini will advise you to use earphones to ensure everything is clear between what you say and the AI’s response.
One Reddit user who downloaded the app posted screenshots on Sunday, showing a Gemini app that carries the same design as its Android counterpart, with the addition of a Gemini Live tab. The Gemini Live feature is a significant upgrade for the chatbot, as it allows you to have a two-way voice conversation with the AI that responds to your questions and commands. It works as a virtual assistant, offering answers to open-ended requests, such as brainstorming for new ideas, planning an event, or practicing for a presentation. You can pause or close the Gemini Live feature by pressing the button on the right side of the screen.
Another user shared the app’s App Store listing URL. However, several others claimed that it was not available in their region. Google has yet to announce a formal rollout for the new Gemini app, but it may be releasing the service on an opt-in basis first to gauge interest and make any necessary adjustments.
Until now, iPhone users only had access to the Gemini chatbot via the Google app. Having its own dedicated Gemini app will make the experience more seamless, although it won’t be a replacement for Siri or Google Assistant’s upcoming Conversational AI. You’ll be able to access your favorite Google Assistant features in the new Gemini app and can still use them with your Pixel Buds Pro 2 if you’d like. The new Gemini app is currently available to download for iOS users in the Philippines, though a wider rollout is expected soon. The standalone Gemini app is a pleasant surprise, as it’s been almost a year since the chatbot’s initial release.
