Google’s new Gemini utilities extension and Quick Share introduction: Everything You Need to Know

Google is rolling out two exciting updates for Android devices, enhancing how you control your phone and making device sharing more user-friendly. The new Gemini Utilities Extension aims to simplify phone management through a range of commands, while Quick Share will now become part of the initial setup on new Android devices, giving it much-needed visibility.

Gemini Utilities Extension: Transforming Device Control

Initially previewed at Google I/O 2024, the Gemini Utilities Extension offers a new way for users to manage their devices and apps using voice and text commands. By integrating with the Gemini AI assistant, the extension replaces Google Assistant’s role for certain tasks, providing a smoother, more native experience. Although it’s gradually rolling out in English, the extension is packed with versatile features. Here’s what it can do:

Key Features

• Set and Manage Alarms & Timers: Gemini can set, snooze, and delete alarms, or start a timer for activities, useful from the lock screen. It also supports third-party clock apps but has extended functionalities with Google’s Clock app.
• Quick Controls for Settings and Apps: You can turn on/off settings like Do Not Disturb, Battery Saver, Bluetooth, or the flashlight with a simple command. Checking battery level or phone volume is just as easy, while actions like power off and restart can also be voice-activated.
• Media and Camera Control: Whether it’s taking a timed selfie, capturing screenshots, or pausing and replaying media, Gemini handles it all through simple commands. It even lets you like or skip songs without navigating manually.
• Browse Screenshots: With commands, you can search and view specific screenshots within the Pixel Screenshots app, ideal for quick access to saved visuals.
• Perform Multiple Actions in One Prompt: Gemini can combine actions in a single command for faster multitasking, like “Turn media volume to 50%, reduce brightness to 30%, and turn on battery saver.”

Real-Life Scenarios

For instance, if you want to set a timer to focus on work and have Gemini play a song in the background, you can prompt it with “Set a 30-minute timer and play my work playlist.” This seamless interaction across commands demonstrates how Gemini simplifies everyday routines on Android.

Quick Share: A Better Way to Share Files on Android

Quick Share, also known as Nearby Share, has made it easy for users to wirelessly transfer files across devices like Android phones, ChromeOS tablets, and even Windows PCs. Google is now mandating that Android devices introduce Quick Share during the initial setup, following Pixel’s example.

Key Features

• Ease of Use: Quick Share allows sharing of photos, videos, files, and URLs to other nearby Android devices and compatible systems. It uses proximity-based detection, making file transfer straightforward without relying on email or apps.
• Privacy Options: When users are introduced to Quick Share during setup, they can adjust privacy settings, choosing visibility preferences for who can see their device nearby.
• Broader Accessibility: Quick Share now appears as a default setting on devices running Android 15 or higher, with OEMs incorporating a setup screen to guide users through the feature.

Aiming for Wider Adoption

This requirement for OEMs, or manufacturers of Android devices, reflects Google’s goal to make Quick Share as familiar and user-friendly as AirDrop on Apple devices. With new Android 15 devices featuring a Quick Share introduction page, awareness and usage of the feature are likely to grow.

What This Means for Android Users

Google’s rollouts with the Gemini Utilities Extension and Quick Share onboarding highlight a push toward integrated, user-friendly functionality across Android devices. Gemini’s versatile command control offers convenience that replaces manual phone actions, while Quick Share’s setup screen on Android 15 will ensure that new users don’t miss out on easy, secure file sharing.

These updates signal Google’s commitment to making Android a more cohesive, AI-driven ecosystem—one that anticipates your needs and enables smoother device interactions, whether for routine tasks or real-time sharing.