Google is introducing exciting new features to its Gemini AI assistant, starting with the latest Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S25 phones. These new tools—Live Camera and Screenshare—let you ask questions about whatever you're seeing through your camera or on your screen, and get instant answers from Gemini in real time. While these features are rolling out now for select phones, they’ll be available soon on more Android devices, too. However, to use them, you’ll need to subscribe to Gemini Advanced, Google’s paid AI plan.
Once the update hits your device, you’ll see a button that lets you activate the Live Camera. Just point your camera at something—like a fish tank, a painting, or a product in a store—and ask Gemini questions. For example, “What type of fish is this?” or “Is this product eco-friendly?” You’ll also be able to use a new Screenshare button to show Gemini what’s on your phone screen. This means you can visit a shopping website and ask Gemini to help compare products or even give you outfit suggestions based on what you're viewing. Still have some questions? Just watch this commercial!
The rollout began last month, and users have started reporting the features showing up on their phones—including some non-Google models like Xiaomi. These features were first shown to the public during Google’s I/O 2024 developer conference as part of “Project Astra.” Gemini Live is currently available in 45 languages, but only in certain countries. It’s available for users aged 18 and older, and doesn’t support school or business (enterprise) accounts for now.
