At Samsung’s first Unpacked event of the year, the company highlighted Gemini-powered AI capabilities on its new phones. However, Google’s simultaneous press release overshadowed Samsung’s announcements, revealing similar and even more advanced features coming to Pixels, iPhones, Android, and the desktop web.
Google’s latest Gemini updates significantly enhance its AI assistant’s capabilities. A key advancement is the introduction of extensions, utilizing an “@” system within chats to execute tasks in specific apps. For instance, instructing Gemini to “Say hi to Christina @WhatsApp” will send a message directly through WhatsApp. Furthermore, Gemini intelligently defaults to appropriate Google services like Messages or Maps, streamlining interactions within the Google ecosystem.
Example of using extensions within Gemini on a phone.
A significant upgrade is Gemini’s ability to utilize multiple extensions within a single prompt. Commands like “Find me the nearest kebab house and send the location to Drew” seamlessly integrate Maps and Messages. This multi-extension support is already available on Pixel 9 series smartphones. On Samsung Galaxy S25 devices, Gemini also integrates with Samsung services like Calendar and Notes. This functionality will eventually extend to iOS, Android, and the web version of Gemini.
Gemini efficiently completes tasks across multiple services.
Gemini Live, the conversational AI, receives a substantial upgrade as well. Previously limited to audio conversations, Gemini Live now supports images, YouTube videos, and local files, enriching interactions beyond text. This feature is available on Galaxy S24, Galaxy S25, and Google Pixel 9 series phones. Screen sharing and live streaming, powered by Google’s Project Astra, are also coming to Gemini in the near future.
Gemini Deep Research being used on a smartphone.
Another notable addition is Deep Research for Gemini mobile. This feature revolutionizes internet search by providing information solely from user-specified sources, minimizing the risk of hallucinations and the need for fact-checking. This powerful tool requires a Gemini Advanced subscription.
Google’s announcements clearly outshine Samsung’s AI reveals at Unpacked. While Samsung focused on Gemini integration, Google showcased a more comprehensive and advanced suite of AI features across multiple platforms. From multi-extension support to enhanced Gemini Live capabilities and the innovative Deep Research, Google positions itself as a leader in the evolving landscape of agentic AI.
