Google has announced the removal of its AI assistant, Gemini, from the main Google app on iOS devices.
Users are now directed to download the standalone Gemini app from the App Store to continue accessing its features.
This change was communicated to users via email on February 18, 2025, where Google stated, "We're making some changes to create an even better Gemini experience on iOS. Gemini is now available as its own app, and that's now the best place to use Gemini."
The standalone Gemini app, launched globally in late 2024, offers enhanced functionalities not available in the main Google app. Users can interact with Gemini through text, voice, or camera inputs.
The app also integrates with various Google services, including Search, YouTube, Maps, and Gmail, providing a seamless experience across the ecosystem. Notably, the Gemini Live feature enables real-time voice conversations with the AI assistant, a capability absent from the previous integration.
By transitioning users to the dedicated app, Google aims to streamline and optimize the Gemini experience on iOS. This move allows for quicker updates and the introduction of new features without the constraints of the main Google app.
However, this strategy carries the risk of reduced user engagement, as some individuals may be reluctant to download an additional application.
For users seeking advanced features, Google offers a premium subscription plan known as Gemini Advanced. This service is available through the Google One AI Premium plan, priced at $18.99 per month.
Subscribers gain access to Google's latest AI model, 1.5 Pro, which includes an expanded context window of up to one million tokens, ensuring more detailed interactions. Additionally, the subscription provides priority access to new features and updates.
Google's decision to remove Gemini from the main iOS app and promote its standalone version reflects a strategic shift towards specialized applications. While this approach offers an enhanced user experience and streamlined updates, it remains to be seen how it will impact user adoption and engagement in the competitive AI assistant market.