Google Gemini Becomes Default Assistant with Live Chat on Pixel 9

Google has announced that its new Pixel 9 lineup of phones will feature Gemini as the default assistant, replacing Google Assistant. Gemini is a chatbot powered by Google's family of large language models and can perform all the functions of the classic Google Assistant, such as turning on lights and playing music. Users of most current Android phones, including older Pixel models, can still opt to use Gemini if they choose.

Additionally, Google introduced Gemini Live, a new feature that allows for real-time, conversational interactions with the AI assistant without the need to press a button. This feature, available to Gemini Advanced subscribers, can handle interruptions and changes in conversation, even when the phone is locked. Gemini Live is initially available in English but will expand to more languages soon. Google also rolled out 10 new voices for Gemini and announced upcoming features like new extensions for Google Calendar, Keep, Tasks, Utilities, and YouTube Music.

The company has not confirmed whether Gemini will completely replace Google Assistant in the future, but the new updates suggest a significant shift towards integrating AI more deeply into its devices and services.