Google Gemini is now available for the iPhone

Google's Gemini AI assistant has officially launched as a standalone app for iPhone users, signaling a major step in the competitive AI assistant market. Released widely on November 14, 2024, the app brings advanced conversational AI capabilities similar to OpenAI's ChatGPT, along with features like image generation powered by Google’s Imagen 2 and integration with services such as Gmail and YouTube.

The Gemini app is free to use but offers additional features for Gemini Pro users and Google One AI Premium subscribers. Notably, the app emphasizes convenience through its new "Extensions" feature, which allows seamless interaction with Google services in a single conversation, enhancing multitasking capabilities for users. However, access is restricted to personal Google accounts and excludes certain managed accounts.

This release demonstrates Google's intent to establish Gemini as a strong competitor in the AI space, directly challenging rivals like Microsoft's Copilot and anticipating Apple's forthcoming AI offerings. The move highlights Google's broader AI strategy, making its flagship technology accessible to iOS users.

The standalone Gemini app offers a more focused experience compared to using Gemini within Google's primary iOS app. While the functionality is similar, the dedicated Gemini app eliminates additional features from the Google app, directing users straight to Gemini’s core capabilities. Users can interact via text or voice, and they also have the option to enhance queries by attaching photos, creating a streamlined and versatile tool for various tasks.

Other options include Gemini Live, which turns Gemini into a far more conversational partner. This is a big one, as it's not available in the Google app, so it's probably going to be the primary reason to choose the standalone Gemini app over the Google app. 

The app is a free download in Apple's App Store, but it does offer in-app purchases. That's if you want to upgrade to Gemini Advanced, which is a part of Google's One AI premium plan. For a $18.99 monthly fee, you'll get a more advanced Gemini model, access to Gemini in apps such as Gmail and Docs, and faster access to new and experimental features.