Google Messages is reportedly rolling out Gemini integration to users, but it might not be available in India.
It has been reported that Gemini will be displayed as the initial contact in the New conversation list of Google Messages.
According to reports, Google is now implementing the integration of Google Messages with Gemini, its proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) model. Initially introduced as a beta update in March 2024, this feature is now beginning to roll out to users across various regions. However, it’s worth noting that India, the UK, Switzerland, and the European Economic Area (EEA) are not included in this update. With the Gemini integration, users can leverage the conversational and generative abilities of the AI model directly within the Messages app.
Gemini in Google Messages
During the Google I/O 2024 event, the Mountain View-based tech giant briefly demonstrated this new feature. Essentially, it establishes a distinct location for accessing the AI model within Google Messages. Users will find it as the primary contact in the New Conversations screen, which can be accessed by tapping the floating action button positioned at the bottom right corner.
Gemini integrated into Google Messages enables users to compose messages and emails, engage in conversations, or search for information online. Additionally, it can rephrase or refine messages for improved clarity. However, users cannot utilize Gemini within group chats or conversations with other users; it’s only accessible separately within a chat. It’s worth noting that Meta permits users to access the Meta AI in WhatsApp’s group chats.
Users can also use emojis in conversations and upload an image as a prompt. However, the AI reportedly cannot process voice messages.
Gemini in Google Messages reportedly rolling out
As per a report from 9to5Google, the AI functionality is now being widely released across most regions. Once it becomes accessible, users will purportedly have the ability to link the AI via Google app extensions. According to the report, all of the extensions available for the Gemini web client will also be accessible for Gemini within Google Messages, except for the recently introduced YouTube Music extension.
The report also noted that while the feature will be accessible globally, it will not be rolled out to India, the UK, Switzerland, and the EEA region, which comprises the 27 EU countries along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. Google has not disclosed the rationale behind this decision.
Before utilizing Gemini, users must enable Rich Communication Services (RCS). Additionally, messages exchanged through Gemini are not end-to-end encrypted. If users encounter any inaccurate or inappropriate messages, they can provide feedback by long-pressing on them. Presently, this feature is solely accessible on smartphones, and it is not supported on the web client or the Wear OS app.
