Google urges iPhone users to switch to standalone Gemini app

By Bryan M. Wolfe Published February 19, 2025

Gemini app on iPhone. — Bryan M. Wolfe / Digital Trends

Last fall, Google introduced a standalone Gemini app for iOS. At the same time, the AI assistant remained in the standalone Google app. That’s now changing. As 9to5Google first noted, Google is informing iOS users that it will remove Gemini support from the Google app. In doing so, it wants you to rely solely on the Gemini app.

In an email to iOS users, Google says: “We’re making some changes to create an even better Gemini experience on iOS. Gemini is now available as its own app, and that’s now the best place to use Gemini. To continue using Gemini, download the new Gemini app from the App Store. With the Gemini app, you’ll have access to all of the same features and more.”

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Removing Gemini from the Google app doesn’t come as much of a surprise.

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Before the standalone Gemini app was released, iOS users could easily switch between Google Search and Gemini within the Google app. However, in recent months, some of the newer Gemini features have been exclusive to the Gemini app and are no longer accessible through the Google app. A clear example is Gemini Live, which was never available in the Google app.

The iOS Gemini app allows users to interact with Gemini via text, voice, images, and the camera, offering support in various areas. It can be utilized to learn about new subjects, compose thank-you notes, organize events, and more. Furthermore, it integrates with other Google apps such as Gmail, Maps, and YouTube, simplifying task completion. The Gemini app for iOS is intended to be a flexible tool that can assist with various tasks ranging from simple to complex.

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Mobile and A/V Freelancer

Bryan M. Wolfe has over a decade of experience as a technology writer. He writes about mobile.

Mobile

With Google Gemini, Android Auto could make your drive safer, more enjoyable

A demonstration of Gemini Live on a Google Pixel 9.

Google is in the process of rolling out Android Auto 14.0 to the public. While the update doesn’t include any new features, it suggests a significant change is coming.

As 9to5Google explains, the update hints that Gemini is set to replace Google Assistant in Android Auto. Behind the scenes, there are also image assets for Gemini and Gemini Live.

Mobile

Google Gemini’s image toolset might add important new feature

Google Gemini on an iPhone.

Google Gemini is constantly enhancing its features. One area that may see improvements soon is the ability to import images. Currently, Gemini allows users to import only one image or file at a time when providing context for search queries. If users try to add another file, they are prompted to replace the existing one instead of being able to upload multiple files.

According to Android Authority, Google is working on an upgrade to this functionality. Soon, users might be able to upload multiple images to Gemini simultaneously.

Mobile

Thanks to Gemini, you can now talk with Google Maps

Gemini’s Ask about place chip in Google Maps.

Google is steadily rolling out contextual improvements to Gemini that make it easier for users to derive AI’s benefits across its core products. For example, opening a PDF in the Files app automatically shows a Gemini chip to analyze it. Likewise, summoning it while using an app triggers an “ask about screen” option, with live video access, too.
A similar treatment is now being extended to the Google Maps experience. When you open a place card in Maps and bring up Gemini, it now shows an “ask about place” chip right about the chat box. Gemini has been able to access Google Maps data for a while now using the system of “apps” (formerly extensions), but it is now proactively appearing inside the Maps application.

The name is pretty self-explanatory. When you tap on the “ask about place” button, the selected location is loaded as a live card in the chat window to offer contextual answers.