Artificial Intelligence
Google’s Gemini AI Expands Capabilities with New ‘Utilities’ Extension on Android!
Google’s Gemini AI assistant is enhancing its functionality on Android devices with the introduction of the Utilities extension, designed to perform a wider range of on-device tasks. Initially previewed at Google I/O 2024, this extension aims to elevate user experience by enabling Gemini to handle various device management functions, moving beyond the traditional voice assistant capabilities. The rollout of the Utilities extension is currently underway on the Gemini mobile app and is expected to reach more Android devices soon.
Key Features of Gemini’s Utilities Extension
The Utilities extension introduces several new capabilities that significantly expand Gemini’s utility:
Expanded Device Management
- Set and Manage Alarms and Timers: Users can easily create and manage alarms and timers directly through voice commands.
- Control Device Features: Gemini can adjust volume levels, display brightness, and operate the flashlight.
- Media Playback Management: Users can control music and video playback seamlessly.
- App and Settings Control: The extension allows users to open specific apps, websites, and device settings, although it currently does not support opening particular web pages or using features like Find My Device.
Lock Screen Access
With the lock screen settings enabled, Gemini can manage essential functions even when the device is locked. Users can:
- Set or silence alarms
- Control timers
- Activate features like Do Not Disturb or Battery Saver
- Take photos or screenshots
Integration with Pixel Screenshots
For Pixel 9 users, Gemini can directly interact with the Pixel Screenshots app, allowing them to locate specific screenshots or retrieve information from within the app, enhancing the overall user experience.
How to Enable the Utilities Extension
To activate the Utilities extension on your Android device, follow these steps:
- Open the Gemini mobile app and ensure it is set as your primary assistant, configured to respond in English.
- Tap on your Google Account menu in the top right corner.
- Select “Gemini Apps Activity” and turn it on.
Significance of the Update
The introduction of the Utilities extension represents a significant step for Google as it seeks to position Gemini as a viable alternative to Google Assistant. Many users have expressed concerns about Gemini’s initial lack of basic functionalities that were previously available through Assistant. With this update, Gemini can now perform many of these essential tasks natively on Android devices.
As Google continues to enhance Gemini’s capabilities, it aims to compete more effectively with other AI-driven assistants like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Copilot. This expansion also aligns with Google’s broader strategy to integrate AI more deeply into its ecosystem, making everyday tasks easier for users.
Future Outlook
While some features are currently limited—such as not being able to change language settings or access specific web pages—the ongoing development of Gemini suggests that future updates may address these gaps. The gradual rollout of the Utilities extension indicates Google’s commitment to refining its AI assistant offerings based on user feedback.
In conclusion, with the launch of the Utilities extension, Google’s Gemini AI is set to provide a more versatile and integrated assistant experience for Android users, marking a notable evolution in how users interact with their devices. As this technology continues to develop, users can expect further enhancements that will make their interactions with technology smoother and more intuitive.
UAE-based G42 has announced plans to deploy an 8 exaflop AI supercomputer in India, announced at the AI Impact Summit 2026 in Delhi. This national-scale project partners with Cerebras, MBZUAI, and India’s C-DAC, operating under full Indian data sovereignty as part of the India AI Mission.
The supercomputer boosts sovereign AI capabilities, enabling startups, researchers, academics, SMEs, and government access for tailored applications like public services and language tech. G42 India CEO Manu Jain highlighted its role in making India AI-native while prioritizing security.
This follows India-UAE tech pacts in late 2025, positioning India among global leaders in exaflop AI infrastructure amid rising demand for localized compute. Cerebras CSO Andy Hock noted it will accelerate large model training for India-specific needs.
Artificial Intelligence
Adopt AI Secures $6 Million to Power No-Code AI Agents for Business Automation
Adopt AI, a San Jose and Bengaluru-based agentic AI startup, has raised $6 million in seed funding led by Elevation Capital, with participation from Foster Ventures, Powerhouse Ventures, Darkmode Ventures, and angel investors. The funding will be used to expand the company’s engineering and product teams and to scale enterprise deployments of its automation platform.
Founded by Deepak Anchala, Rahul Bhattacharya, and Anirudh Badam, Adopt AI offers a platform that lets businesses automate workflows and execute complex actions using natural language commands, without needing to rebuild existing systems. Its core products include a no-code Agent Builder, which allows companies to quickly create and deploy AI-driven conversational interfaces, and Agentic Experience, which replaces traditional user interfaces with text-based commands.
The startup’s technology is aimed at SaaS and B2C companies in sectors like banking and healthcare, helping them rapidly integrate intelligent agent capabilities into their applications. Adopt AI’s team includes engineers from Microsoft and Google, with Chief AI Officer Anirudh Badam bringing over a decade of AI experience from Microsoft.
The company has also launched an Early Access Program to let businesses pilot its automation solution and collaborate on new use cases.
Social media platforms are intensifying efforts to combat the misuse of deepfake technology by advocating for mandatory AI labeling and clearer definitions of synthetic content. Deepfakes, created using advanced artificial intelligence, pose significant threats by enabling the spread of misinformation, particularly in areas like elections, politics, and personal privacy.
Meta’s New Approach
Meta has announced expanded policies to label AI-generated content across Facebook and Instagram. Starting May 2025, “Made with AI” labels will be applied to synthetic media, with additional warnings for high-risk content that could deceive the public. Meta also requires political advertisers to disclose the use of AI in ads related to elections or social issues, aiming to address concerns ahead of key elections in India, the U.S., and Europe.
Industry-Wide Efforts
Other platforms like TikTok and Google have introduced similar rules, requiring deepfake content to be labeled clearly. TikTok has banned deepfakes involving private figures and minors, while the EU has urged platforms to label AI-generated media under its Digital Services Act guidelines.
Challenges Ahead
Despite these measures, detecting all AI-generated content remains difficult due to technological limitations. Experts warn that labeling alone may not fully prevent misinformation campaigns, especially as generative AI tools become more accessible.
Election Implications
With major elections scheduled in 2025, experts fear deepfakes could exacerbate misinformation campaigns, influencing voter perceptions. Social media platforms are under pressure to refine their policies and technologies to ensure transparency while safeguarding free speech.
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