A Simple Common-Sense Update Just Made Gemini So Much Better

Sometimes, it’s the little updates and changes that make using an app or service much better. Google is busy adding a ton of changes to Gemini that make it a better assistant, and this next update is a common-sense change. According to the company, Gemini extensions can now be used when the phone is locked.

Until now, you couldn’t use Gemini if your phone was locked. You wouldn’t think that would be an issue, but it can be. Google really wants Gemini to be more than just a chatbot; it wants Gemini to be a full-fledged agent for you. The company wants it to be Google Assistant on steroids.

However, not being able to access Gemini from the lock screen was a bit of a hindrance. It makes sense why Google didn’t allow people to use Gemini while their devices were locked. You don’t want a person to be able to access your apps or features on your phone without unlocking it. However, we’re sure that people will take the risk if it means that their AI agent is more useful.

Google lets Gemini extensions work right from your lock screen

On Monday, Google announced that a locked phone doesn’t stop Gemini from being useful. You can now use Gemini extensions without needing to unlock your phone. So, if you want Gemini to open your favorite Spotify playlist or search for a YouTube video for you, then you can do it without actually being around your phone. You access these right from your lock screen.

However, if you don’t like this feature, then don’t worry. Google isn’t making this standard for all users. You’ll need to enable it if you want to use it.

How to enable this feature

Open the Gemini app and tap on your avatar in the top right corner of the screen. From there, tap on the Settings icon and look for the Gemini on lock screen button. From there, you can toggle the switch to enable the feature.

However, if you previously had Gemini on lock screen or Assistant on lock screen enabled previously, then this feature will be enabled by default.