Google’s Gemini revamps Android experience and prepares Android 14 for older Chromecast models

Key Points:

1. Google’s Gemini AI introduces a sleek floating panel on Android, enhancing user experience without interrupting ongoing tasks.
2. The update includes a new YouTube feature for easy video summaries, boosting its usefulness for educational content.
3. Older Chromecast models will receive Android 14, although some features will be exclusive to newer devices.

Google’s Gemini AI assistant is rolling out a new, user-friendly interface on Android devices. This update features a floating panel that is both visually appealing and functional. The panel includes a subtle glowing animation that activates when Gemini is called, making it easy to use without overwhelming the screen. The animation and layout are designed to complement your current activities, ensuring that Gemini can assist you without disrupting your workflow.

Unveiled at Google’s developer conference in May, this new interface is tailored for seamless multitasking. The panel provides useful information from Gemini while you continue working within your current app. If you prefer a more detailed view, a simple tap in the upper-right corner will expand the panel to full screen. Additionally, this interface integrates smoothly with Gemini’s image generation capabilities, allowing you to drag and drop images directly into apps like Gmail or Google Messages.

One of the standout features in this update is a new “Ask about this video” option for YouTube, replacing the older “Ask about this screen” prompt. This new feature is particularly useful for educational videos, allowing users to easily access summaries or ask questions about the content, making it easier to understand and retain information.

Overall, these enhancements mark a significant improvement in how Gemini interacts with Android users. The floating panel, in particular, is a smart addition that enhances the experience, making it easier to access AI-driven assistance on the go.

This update follows the recent release of Gemini Live, which introduced a more conversational interface for interacting with the AI. While Gemini Live offers more advanced features, such as natural conversation, it requires a Gemini Advanced subscription. In contrast, the new floating panel is available to all users, making it a more accessible option for many.

Currently, these new features are available to a limited group of users, but Google plans to expand access in the coming weeks.

In addition to Gemini’s updates, Google is also preparing to bring Android 14 to older Chromecast models, despite having recently launched the new Google TV Streamer. According to Android Authority, Chromecast with Google TV will receive the Android 14 update, even though the device has been discontinued. This was confirmed by a Google product manager during the Made by Google event, where the latest Pixel models and Pixel Watch 3 were also introduced.

While the new Google TV Streamer runs Android 14 natively and offers cutting-edge features, older Chromecast devices won’t support all the new functionalities. For instance, the ability to connect to the Thread border router, which allows for fast and secure connections to smart home devices, will be exclusive to the new Streamer.

The Android 14 update for Chromecast with Google TV (4K) will be its second major upgrade, following its initial release with Android 10 and a subsequent update to Android 12. The HD version, which launched later, came with Android 12 pre-installed. The 4K model will continue to receive security updates until September 2025, and the HD model until September 2027.

While Android Authority has confirmed that the update is on the way, the exact release date remains uncertain. However, it is expected to arrive soon.

Source/Via