Mountain View, CA, February 19, 2025 – Google has pulled its AI assistant Gemini from the main Google app on iOS devices and is now directing users to download a dedicated Gemini app from the App Store.
The move is aimed at strengthening Google’s position in the competitive landscape of consumer-facing AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity.
In an email sent to users, Google warned that “Gemini is no longer available in the Google app” and advised iOS users to download the standalone Gemini app to continue using the service. Launched to iOS users worldwide late last year, the Gemini app offers features including voice conversations via Gemini Live, integration with other Google apps like Search, YouTube, Maps, and Gmail, as well as capabilities for asking questions, planning trips, receiving AI-generated summaries, and even creating images. Users can interact with Gemini through text, voice, or by using their camera.
Google also reminded customers that, as with any AI tool, Gemini can occasionally produce inaccurate results, urging users to double-check its responses. Additionally, those interested in upgrading to a paid subscription for access to Gemini Advanced can do so through the Google One AI Premium plan available as an in-app purchase on iOS.
If an iOS user attempts to access Gemini via the main Google app, a full-screen message appears stating “Gemini now has its own app” along with a link to the App Store download.
While this strategy could enable Google to roll out new AI features more quickly and compete more directly with other AI services, it also risks reducing Gemini’s reach. The main Google app is used by millions, and some users may not be motivated to download an additional application, potentially leading to a drop-off in usage.
The change underscores the broader trend of tech companies refining their app ecosystems to deliver specialized experiences, even as they balance the convenience of integrated services with the need to innovate rapidly in the competitive AI market.
Read next
12:57
RUSSIA-GOOGLE
n 2024, Russian courts imposed fines on Google LLC four times, totaling 15.1 million rubles ($172,300), according to the press service of the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology, and Mass Media (Roskomnadzor).
23:00
Google
Google on Wednesday rolled out an update for iOS that lets users search what’s on their screen with a simple gesture. The new feature, available in both the Google Chrome and Google Search apps, is similar to Android’s built-in “Circle to Search” function.
16:30
Google
London, February 19, 2025 – Google has developed an advanced AI tool designed to serve as a virtual collaborator for biomedical researchers, the tech giant announced on Wednesday.
15:06
Mexico vs Google
Mexico has warned of a potential lawsuit against Google over its renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to "Gulf of America" for U.S. users, a decision made in response to President Trump’s executive order.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment