Google’s Gemini has introduced a significant change aimed at enhancing user experience with its app integration. The Gemini Team has been communicating this update to users through emails, as highlighted on Reddit. A key feature of this update is that Gemini will soon have access to connected apps, such as Phone, Messages, and WhatsApp, without requiring users to enable App Activity. This change will take effect on July 7.
Despite initial concerns raised by the email’s content, Google reassured users that they remain in control of the apps and data Gemini can access. The goal of this adjustment is to improve the overall functionality of Gemini, allowing it to assist users more effectively in completing everyday tasks. Previously, users had to enable activity tracking to utilize these connected extensions, which might not have been ideal for everyone. With this new update, Gemini aims to maintain user privacy while still providing useful services.
The company stated that interactions with Gemini will only be retained for 72 hours, balancing safety and feedback collection. However, the wording of the email sparked some apprehension among users, particularly regarding Gemini’s access to sensitive information like calls and texts. Google clarified its intentions with an official statement, emphasizing that this update is beneficial, as it allows users to perform tasks without necessitating App Activity. Users have the flexibility to turn off Gemini’s access to apps through the app’s settings anytime they desire.
These updates come after a major upgrade to the Gemini app earlier this year, which looked to personalize user experiences even further. The app’s capability of handling complex queries across multiple applications is also being improved, marking an exciting development for Google users.