## Gemini app rolling out ‘Utilities’ Extension for phone control: Here’s everything it can do
Gemini, the AI assistant that powers Google’s Bard, is getting a significant update with the introduction of a new “Utilities” extension. This powerful feature allows users to control their Android phones directly through Gemini, offering a wide array of functions and functionalities.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what the Utilities extension can do:
### **Phone Control:**
**1. Texting:**
– **Send messages:** Easily compose and send text messages to any contact using Gemini’s natural language capabilities.
– **Read messages:** Gemini can read out incoming messages, allowing you to stay connected without looking at your phone.
– **Reply to messages:** Gemini can generate responses to messages based on your context and preferences, ensuring you stay on top of conversations.
**2. Calling:**
– **Make calls:** Initiate calls to any number or contact using Gemini’s voice command feature.
– **Answer calls:** Gemini can answer incoming calls on your behalf and manage calls effectively, making it easier to stay focused on other tasks.
– **Hang up calls:** Effortlessly end calls with a simple command, allowing for seamless control over your phone’s calls.
**3. Navigation:**
– **Get directions:** Navigate to destinations effortlessly by using Gemini’s location-aware features and Google Maps integration.
– **Check traffic:** Stay informed about real-time traffic conditions to avoid delays and plan your routes accordingly.
– **Find parking:** Locate nearby parking spaces and view availability to ensure a convenient experience.
**4. Music Control:**
– **Play music:** Enjoy your favorite tunes by requesting songs and controlling playback with your voice.
– **Adjust volume:** Adjust the volume level with precise control for an optimal listening experience.
– **Switch songs:** Skip to the next track or return to previous ones effortlessly using voice commands.
**5. Notifications:**
– **Receive notifications:** Stay informed about critical updates, reminders, and important messages without constantly checking your phone.
– **Dismiss notifications:** Control your notifications by dismissing them directly through Gemini’s interface, preventing unnecessary clutter.
### **Enhanced Features:**
**1. Device Settings:**
– **Brightness:** Adjust your phone’s screen brightness for optimal viewing conditions, whether you’re indoors or outdoors.
– **Volume:** Control the volume of your phone’s media, calls, and other functionalities to suit your preferences.
– **Wi-Fi:** Connect to nearby Wi-Fi networks and manage your connection with ease.
– **Bluetooth:** Pair and disconnect Bluetooth devices, such as headphones, speakers, and car systems.
**2. App Control:**
– **Open and close apps:** Control which apps are running and access them directly from Gemini’s interface.
– **App notifications:** Manage app-specific notifications to receive only relevant information.
**3. Accessibility:**
– **Text-to-speech:** Convert text content on your screen to speech for easier consumption.
– **Screen reader:** Allow Gemini to read aloud anything on your screen, making it easier for individuals with visual impairments to access information.
**4. Safety & Security:**
– **Emergency contacts:** Easily access your list of emergency contacts in case of unforeseen circumstances.
– **Device lockdown:** Lock your phone remotely if it gets lost or stolen, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data.
**5. Personalized Experience:**
– **Customizable commands:** Personalize the way you interact with Gemini by creating unique voice commands for various tasks.
– **Contextual awareness:** Gemini remembers your previous interactions and preferences, providing a personalized and efficient experience.
**Availability and Compatibility:**
The Utilities extension is currently rolling out to users enrolled in the Gemini early access program. It is exclusively available for Android devices and is expected to be integrated into the main Gemini app in the coming months.
This powerful addition to Gemini’s capabilities will change the way users interact with their phones, offering a convenient and hands-free approach to phone control. By utilizing Gemini’s intelligence and extensive functionalities, users can stay connected, efficient, and secure, even without constantly checking their phones.
