Google Play Store now supports multiple app updates; Gemini rolls out Gems and Imagen 3 with people generation
Top 3 Key Points:
- Multi-Download Feature: Google Play Store now allows simultaneous app updates, enhancing user experience.
- Gems in Gemini: Customizable AI helpers (Gems) introduced in Gemini, aiding users with tasks like writing and coding.
- Imagen 3 Update: Gemini’s new image model, Imagen 3, improves image generation with enhanced people rendering.
Google has introduced a major enhancement to the Play Store, allowing users to download multiple Android app updates at the same time. Previously, the Play Store could only handle one update at a time, requiring users to wait for each app to finish downloading and installing before starting the next. This update streamlines the process, especially for those managing large numbers of apps.
Earlier this year, Google began rolling out a similar feature for new app installations, letting users download multiple apps at once. However, this capability did not extend to app updates, leaving many users to endure the slow, one-by-one download process. Now, Google has expanded this functionality, and users can download up to three updates simultaneously. Once three apps are downloaded, additional updates will queue with a “Pending” status, similar to the process on Apple’s App Store.
This new multi-download feature is rolling out across various devices, though it remains unclear whether it’s due to a server-side change or an update to the Play Store app. Regardless, this improvement is a welcome change, making the process of updating apps faster and more efficient.
In addition to this update, Google’s Gemini AI platform is introducing two significant features: Gems and Imagen 3.
Gems is a new feature within Gemini that allows users to create customized AI assistants tailored to their specific needs. These AI assistants can be programmed to act as experts in various topics or to help with specific tasks, such as writing, brainstorming, or coding. Users can input detailed instructions, and Gemini will generate a structured format that includes purposes, goals, and behavioral rules. These customized Gems can be saved and accessed quickly via the Gemini side panel. Pre-made Gems are also available, offering specialized assistance in areas like learning, career development, and creative projects.
Imagen 3 is the latest image generation model from Google, now integrated into Gemini with support across all languages. This model allows users to create high-quality, photorealistic images, including scenes and characters. Initially, the ability to generate images of people will be available to Gemini Advanced, Business, and Enterprise users in English. Google has made significant improvements to the technology, particularly in how it handles the generation of people, ensuring better accuracy while avoiding inappropriate content. Feedback from early users will continue to shape future updates, with plans to expand this capability to more users and languages over time.
These updates reflect Google’s ongoing commitment to improving user experience and expanding the capabilities of its AI-powered tools. Whether you’re downloading multiple apps or creating custom AI helpers, these new features are designed to save time and enhance productivity.