Google's got a round of Android and app updates in time for MWC, starting with a new way to chat with its Gemini chatbot: directly inside Google Messages. There are also a few other small updates to Android Auto, Google Docs, and a couple of new smart accessibility features for visually impaired people.
If you're itching to message your new Gemini friend, you won't have to wait long — it's arriving as an update to the Messages app this week, though you'll need to sign up for Google's beta testing program to access it for now. The same access rules apply, so no Google One subscription is required, at least for this version. When I tested Gemini with ChatGPT a few weeks ago, Gemini left a lot to be desired as a conversation partner. Adding a chatbot to your messaging app is one way to make it feel more like talking to a friend. Gemini in messages is only available in English at this time, and in “certain markets” only.
Android Auto is also getting an AI update, allowing summaries of long texts or chat threads so you can keep your eyes on the road while you catch up. It will also suggest responses and actions based on context, such as showing you the option to share your ETA if a friend asks when you'll arrive.
Generative AI is also the focus of some accessibility feature updates to Lookout and Maps. Lens in Google Maps is getting screen reader improvements to help locate businesses and provide relevant information, such as business hours. Lookout, which identifies objects and tags for visually impaired people, will automatically generate image descriptions using artificial intelligence, including photos online and those shared in messages. Google says this is now rolling out globally in English.
The last two updates in the lineup have nothing to do with AI, they're just on hand. Google is making a simple change to Android that makes it easier to switch output devices when using Spotify — and it's great! But my favorite new feature in the suite is support for handwritten annotations in Google Docs. It's an update for Android phones and tablets that allows you to choose from a variety of pen and highlighter colors so you can mark notes on a document with your finger or stylus.
As someone who buys quite a few journals and loves taking notes with a pen, this makes me very happy. It would undoubtedly be more useful on a larger pad like the Pixel Tablet — remember, Google is still trying to make Android tablets — or on the internal screen of a foldable device so you can scribble to your heart's content. No need for AI.
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