Google Unveils Major Gemini AI Upgrades for Android and Wear OS Devices
In July 2025, Google announced a suite of transformative Gemini AI features set to deeply integrate with Android 16 smartphones and Wear OS 6 smartwatches. Showcased during Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event, these upgrades center on making AI a core part of the Android experience rather than just a background tool. Gemini AI can now “see through” cameras, perform contextual app actions, and deliver smarter, more conversational assistance on both phones and wearables.
Gemini AI Brings Smarter Camera Integration and In-App Assistance to Foldables
With "Gemini Live," foldable phones like the Galaxy Z Flip 7 gain hands-free, real-time AI support—available right from the cover screen. Users can access Gemini without unfolding their device, making it easier to get instructions or ask questions on the go. In "Flex Mode," the AI leverages visual input through the camera, offering real-time, situation-aware help for tasks like cooking or outfit advice by processing what it "sees".
Gemini Becomes the New Brain of Wear OS, Now Rolling Out Even to Older Watches
Gemini AI is replacing Google Assistant on new smartwatches like the Galaxy Watch 8 and, starting this month, is also rolling out to older Wear OS devices through the Play Store. This upgrade transforms smartwatches into true, context-aware digital companions. Users can expect more intelligent notifications, real-time voice responses, and proactive suggestions tailored to what they're doing, moving far beyond the previous, limited voice command experience.
"Circle to Search" Upgraded, Now Conversational and Contextual
The popular "Circle to Search" feature is now powered by Gemini, enabling users to highlight or circle content on their screens and receive conversational summaries, in-depth answers, and the ability to ask follow-up questions, all without leaving their current app. This is designed to make searching more seamless, interactive, and efficient, changing how users interact with both content and the web on Android devices.
Gemini AI Reaches Developers and Older Devices
To ensure broad adoption, Google is releasing free-tier access for Gemini’s AI models and APIs, providing tools and starter kits for developers. The Gemini app now acts as a unified AI companion across phones, desktops, and wearables, emphasizing Google's vision of Gemini as a universal platform for productivity and creativity, now also extending to older Wear OS smartwatches through software updates