Google reveals “pill-shaped” button for persistent Gemini sessions
Gemini, Google’s AI chatbot, may soon process user requests in the background on Android devices, according to a report by Android Authority.
The feature was observed in the latest beta version of the Google app, addressing a current limitation where the Gemini overlay, activated via the Google hotword or a long press on the power button, disappears when users navigate away, requiring them to restart interactions. This enhancement would allow users to switch between Gemini and other applications while the chatbot continues processing a query.
As seen in a preview, users can pose a question to Gemini via its overlay and then return to a background application, with Gemini processing the request concurrently. Results become accessible through a floating button that appears once the processing concludes.
Google has been integrating Gemini across its ecosystem, including smartphones and smartwatches. The company has focused on refining the user experience as Gemini’s adoption expands. This background processing functionality is in its early stages of development.