(Web Desk) - Google has officially launched its Gemini Live AI assistant, making it available for free to all Android users.
Previously, access to Gemini Live was restricted to subscribers of the Gemini Advanced plan, which cost $20 per month. Now, anyone can download the Gemini app to utilize the voice assistant, though it currently only supports English.
For owners of the latest Google devices, such as the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, accessing Gemini Live is straightforward. Users simply need to open the Gemini app and tap the Live icon located in the bottom right corner.
Gemini Live features ten distinct voices, allowing users to choose from a selection inspired by stars and constellations.
Gemini Live offers functionality similar to that of established voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa. It can comprehend casual conversation and engage in a more human-like manner.
Users can rely on Gemini Live for brainstorming ideas, making speculations, and even multitasking, as it seamlessly manages requests while maintaining an ongoing dialogue.
The voice options are designed to be more emotionally expressive, enhancing the overall conversational experience.
This rollout occurs amid increasing competition in the voice assistant market, with rivals such as ChatGPT's Advanced Voice Mode and Microsoft’s newly enhanced Copilot AI also entering the fray.
By offering Gemini Live for free, Google aims to differentiate itself in this crowded landscape. The seamless integration with the Android operating system and Google’s suite of devices could bolster its appeal.
However, Google must also contend with Apple’s forthcoming upgrades to Siri, part of a broader array of Apple Intelligence features set to launch soon.
Despite the competition, users who have found current voice assistants lacking may see Gemini Live as a substantial improvement. Ultimately, Google seeks to position Gemini as more than just an extension of Google Assistant.
By enhancing Gemini’s relevance in users' lives, particularly on mobile devices, the company aims to secure its place in the ongoing AI assistant competition.
As users begin to experience Gemini Live, it will be interesting to see how it measures up against its growing list of competitors.