Google has rolled out a major update to its Gemini artificial intelligence (AI) assistant, bringing split-screen multitasking capabilities directly to Android devices.
The new feature allows users to run Gemini alongside other applications on a single screen without exiting the current app, enhancing both usability and daily work efficiency, according to Digital Trends. Previously, Gemini’s use was generally limited to overlapping windows or overlays appearing above other apps, or through a dedicated application.
With split-screen multitasking, users can now position Gemini on one side of the screen and another application on the other. For example, a user could write notes on one side while simultaneously requesting AI assistance on the other. The mode has been detected in the latest versions of the Google app, enabling a more seamless integration of Gemini with other applications such as browsers or productivity tools.
The split-screen functionality is intuitive to use. From within the Gemini interface, users can drag the Gemini function bar upwards or to the side to separate the window and adjust the screen size between Gemini and the active application.
On devices with larger screens, this provides a full side-by-side experience. On smaller screens, Gemini will stack vertically between panels, functioning similarly to standard Android multitasking features.
Google has also included a “Share screen and app content” option within the Gemini interface when running in split-screen mode. When activated, this feature allows Gemini to view the content of other applications displayed on the adjacent screen, enabling the AI to provide more contextual responses and information based on the displayed content. This integration represents a significant step in the evolution of generative AI on mobile devices.
The update allows Gemini to operate more like a truly multitasking productivity assistant alongside other applications, rather than simply being an information retrieval tool appearing on top of content. This approach is expected to assist users with a variety of tasks, from writing documents while researching references to translating text in real-time without switching applications.
The split-screen multitasking feature is reportedly beginning to roll out in certain versions of the Google app, such as version 17.5.42.ve.arm64. The feature is also expected to turn into widely available on more Android devices in the coming weeks. Google has not yet released an official global launch schedule, but the innovation is anticipated to be part of the company’s strategy to expand Gemini’s practical capabilities amid growing competition in the mobile AI assistant space.
Google News
(MMI)
