Gemini gains lock screen control: Google expands Android AI assistant's capabilities

Google's working on boosting Gemini's capabilities on Android by enabling it to handle messages and calls even when your phone's locked. Codes found in an unreleased update suggest that the AI assistant will soon get features that were once only part of Gemini Live.

A new settings option will allow users to turn on Gemini's ability to work from the lock screen. For security reasons, though, you'll still need to unlock the phone if the response includes personal stuff, like information from Gmail.

Aside from the new communication features, the update also gives the AI assistant a facelift. The floating text overlay will adjust vertically to fit longer messages better, and Gemini Extensions will be sorted into different categories like Communication, Device Control, Travel, Media, and Productivity.

They're also trimming down the command examples from three to just one in each category, simplifying things. This fits with Google's bigger plan to make Gemini the leading AI assistant on Android.

The added lock screen features are also especially handy when you need hands-free use, like driving or doing something that requires your full focus.