Experience the Exciting New Gemini Astra Upgrade on Google Pixel 9
- Google Pixel 9 smartphones now equipped with Gemini Live Astra features
- Astra can answer questions based on what your camera sees and what’s on your screen
- The advanced AI tool is free and also launched for Samsung S25 devices
Introduction to Gemini Live Astra on Google Pixel 9
The Google Pixel 9 series, which includes the Pixel 9, 9 Pro, and 9a, has recently been enhanced with an exciting update. Thanks to the new Gemini Live Astra capabilities, Pixel 9 users can enjoy powerful features that allow their devices to provide real-time responses based on what the camera captures and what is displayed on the screen. This update follows a similar rollout for Samsung S25 devices and is available free of charge, making it accessible to many users.
What is Gemini Astra?
Gemini Astra is a cutting-edge AI feature integrated into the Gemini Live interface. When users grant the application camera access, it can engage in conversations about the visuals it detects. The technology aims to enhance user interaction by answering questions related to the environment, objects, or elements displayed on the device’s screen.
How to Access Gemini Astra
To get started with Gemini Astra, users can launch the Gemini Live app and look for new icons at the bottom of the interface. The icons include:
– A **camera icon** to switch to camera mode.
– A **screen share icon** to share your device’s screen.
If you don’t see these options initially, it may take a few days for the feature to become available for all Pixel 9 users.
Hands-On Experience with Gemini Astra
Graham Barlow, TechRadar’s Senior AI Editor, evaluated the Gemini Astra features on his Pixel 9. Upon initiating the Gemini Live app, he observed the two new icons offering different functionalities. The camera mode was particularly engaging; he could switch the camera to face himself and ask various questions. For example, when he asked Gemini about his hair color, it accurately described it as “a lovely natural brown color.”
Barlow further tested the functionality by pointing the phone at several objects, including a water bottle and a laptop. The AI recognized these items correctly and provided relevant information. He even asked where he was located, and astonishingly, Gemini identified the location as Bath, UK, based on the distinct architectural style and surrounding greenery.
Limitations of Gemini Astra
Despite the intelligence exhibited during these interactions, it’s essential to note that Gemini Astra does not utilize Google Search while in live mode. As a result, it can assist in brainstorming ideas or identifying objects but cannot fetch real-time information from the internet. For instance, while it identified a Funko Pop figure of Kirk Hammett, it could not offer purchasing options online.
The screen sharing feature works effectively, prompting users to share their screens. When activated, a small Gemini window appears, allowing for seamless interaction with the device while receiving guidance on screen content. Users can ask questions like, “What am I looking at?” to receive descriptions or “Where are my Bluetooth settings?” for step-by-step navigation to settings.
Performance Overview
The Gemini Live Astra capabilities show a commendable level of performance. Compared to existing features like Google Lens, which previously offered similar functions, the integration of such abilities within the Gemini app creates a more consolidated and user-friendly experience. The interface operates smoothly without noticeable bugs, revealing a promising approach to AI interactions on smartphones.
Overall, the introduction of Gemini Astra on Pixel 9 presents a leap in how users interact with their devices, offering a combination of real-time feedback and convenient accessibility to information.
