Gemini Assistant Expands Features with New WhatsApp and Spotify Integrations on Android

Recent developments indicate that the Gemini virtual assistant on Android is gaining new functionalities. This AI-driven chatbot was introduced as an alternative to the Google Assistant and enables users to respond to inquiries, generate text, and perform web searches. Initially, it had limited integration with third-party apps, which reduced its utility for everyday scenarios. However, improvements are underway with the introduction of extensions that facilitate access to specific applications. The latest update suggests that Gemini will soon support WhatsApp and Spotify through these extensions.

As reported by a reliable source, this enhancement was detected in the Google app's beta version for Android. Although it hasn't been released to the public yet, a beta tester noticed that after activating the extension, a new prompt card emerged, explaining how Google Assistant functionalities would be replaced with Gemini Extensions. To utilize these features, users must keep the Gemini app activity enabled, which is essential for tasks like selecting a contact.

Additionally, the app is designed to identify which applications users prefer for making calls or sending texts to specific contacts. Based on this information, Gemini will automatically select the preferred app by default. Users do have the flexibility to modify this preference and can disable any extension through the activity menu if they choose to do so.

One beta tester managed to activate the WhatsApp extension, which allows users to send text messages using voice commands as they would with Google Assistant. When invoked, the interface of the Gemini assistant displays an app card that users can click to quickly access the app and review the message. Moreover, this extension also lets users edit messages prior to sending and initiate voice calls via the app.

On the Spotify front, the extension appears to cater to both free and Premium users alike. By using prompts, users can instruct Gemini to play a certain track on Spotify, which will automatically select and commence the playback of the song. Similar to the functionality with WhatsApp, a Spotify card is generated after the command is executed, allowing users to tap it to access the chosen song within the app seamlessly.