Google is finally introducing a “Hey Gemini” hotword for its AI assistant, but it’s only on Android XR glasses to start.
Around a decade after “Hey Google” made its debut, Google is introducing its first new always-listening hotword. “Hey Gemini” makes its debut on Google’s Intelligent Eyewear glasses powered by Android XR, with wearers able to use that hotword in place of “Hey Google.”
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This is a move that doesn’t come as a huge surprise. If anything, it’s perhaps a bit overdue.
The move from Assistant to Gemini would have been the expected place for Google to make this change, but it’s one that many will certainly welcome. While the hotword you use really won’t matter much at the end of the day, “Hey Google” has been recognized by many to not roll of the tongue very nicely. It’s a phrase that’s easy to stumble over, where “Hey Gemini” is a bit smoother.
As for whether or not “Hey Gemini” will become the default on future product remains unclear, but it’s a change only available on glasses for now.
We’ve asked Google if both hotwords will be active on Android XR glasses, but it was implied that this is, in fact, the case. When paired to Samsung glasses, “Hey Bixby” may also be in play, as Samsung’s voice assistant is supported on Intelligent Eyewear. Exact functionality, though, is something we’re still waiting for more clarity on.
More on Android XR:
- Google launches Intelligent Eyewear glasses from $395
- Here’s how Google’s Android XR glasses are handling the camera & privacy
- XREAL Aura debuts with 150 made-for-XR experiences
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