Google Expands Gemini Nano Accessibility for Android Developers and Enhances AI Features for Pixel Users

Greg Burn
Google Expands Gemini Nano Accessibility for Android Developers and Enhances AI Features for Pixel Users

The recent advancements from the tech giant based in Mountain View mark significant changes in the functionality of Gemini Nano. This small yet powerful artificial intelligence model is now available to a broader range of Android developers. Previously, its capabilities were limited to first-party Google applications like Google Messages and Pixel Recorder on certain Pixel smartphones and the Galaxy S24 line. With this latest development, third-party applications can now incorporate Gemini Nano's features. Additionally, users can reportedly share images directly from other applications using the Android share sheet.

Gemini Nano, launched in 2023, is Google's most compact language model, derived from the more extensive Gemini AI framework. Its primary use has been to facilitate AI functionality on the latest Pixel devices and the Galaxy S24 series within native Google apps. However, this is set to evolve as the tech company has disclosed plans to make the AI model available for Android application developers. They will be able to leverage Gemini Nano's capabilities through the AI Edge SDK via AICore. Initially, access will be limited to send messages using prompts on the Pixel 9 series, with support for additional devices and features to follow later.

Recent reports indicate that Gemini v1.0.668480831 allows for seamless image sharing directly from the Gallery app or any third-party application using the Android share sheet functionality. This addition may prove valuable for users with extensive image collections on their devices. By locating the desired image in its source app, users can effortlessly send it to Gemini. After sharing, they can then open the application and inquire about the image. However, the presence of this feature has not been confirmed by independent sources after updating to the indicated version.

Moreover, the tech powerhouse has enhanced Gemini Live to include support for Hindi and eight regional languages during the Google for India 2024 event. In addition to this, AI summaries will soon be accessible in four regional languages alongside Hindi and English, further expanding the reach and usability of their AI technology.