“Gemini AI Assistant Now Operates with Locked Android Devices”

Gemini AI assistant will be able to set, stop, and snooze alarms directly from the lock screen.

The Gemini AI assistant on Android is getting a new upgrade, allowing users to access it and perform certain tasks even when the device is locked. Previously, while the AI assistant could respond on the lock screen, completing tasks required invoking Google Assistant. With this update, users can set, stop, and snooze alarms, ask general questions, and get answers without unlocking the device.

Gemini AI Assistant Can Now Operate on the Lock Screen

The update was announced on Gemini’s support page, stating, “You can get help from Gemini by touch or by saying ‘Hey Google’ (if on) when your device is locked, based on your lock screen settings.”

Interestingly, the command ‘Hey Google’ works even if the screen is off. The prompt automatically wakes the screen and displays the Gemini AI bottom sheet interface, allowing users to verbally command the assistant or type their query. The Gemini AI assistant opens a full-screen window to show the answer, just as it does when the device is unlocked. Once the Gemini window is closed, the lock screen reappears.

Apart from asking the AI general questions, users can also use it to set, stop, and snooze alarms, set and stop timers, pause and play songs, and control the flashlight or volume. While these tasks are still handled by Google Assistant, the interface is now smoother, eliminating the wait for command fulfillment.

To enable Gemini AI to answer general questions on the lock screen, users need to allow it to operate on the lock screen. To do this, open Gemini > tap on the profile picture > tap Gemini on lock screen > turn on Responses on lock screen.

Similarly, to allow Gemini to perform tasks on the lock screen, users need to enable Google Assistant’s capabilities. To do this, open Gemini on your Android device, tap on the profile picture or initials, go to Settings, and then tap on Google Assistant features > Google Assistant on lock screen > Turn on Responses on lock screen.