Android users will soon gain more control and flexibility over their device’s AI assistant, as Google prepares to roll out a major update for its Gemini chatbot.
Starting July 7, Gemini will be able to interact with key device apps—such as Phone, Messages, WhatsApp, and Utilities—even when Gemini Apps Activity is turned off.
Until now, disabling the Gemini Apps Activity setting meant sacrificing useful features. With the setting off, Gemini couldn’t send messages, make phone calls, set alarms, or control media playback. But this upcoming update removes that limitation, allowing users to complete these daily tasks without sharing their chat data for AI training.
Gemini Apps Activity controls whether your conversations with the chatbot can be used to improve Google’s AI models and services. By default, turning it off prevents chats from being used to train or personalize Google’s tools. However, the new change means you’ll still be able to use Gemini for tasks like messaging or calling—even with that setting off.
The announcement initially confused users due to vague wording in Google’s notification to users, raising concerns about potential privacy risks. But the company later clarified that Gemini’s access to apps and device controls remains optional, and users can disable app connections at any time through their settings.
In a statement, Google said the update is a win for privacy-conscious users. “They can now use Gemini to complete daily tasks on their mobile devices like send messages, initiate phone calls, and set timers while Gemini Apps Activity is turned off,” the company explained. Google also confirmed that with the setting off, conversations will not be reviewed or used to improve AI models.
However, even with Apps Activity disabled, Google will temporarily store interactions with Gemini for up to 72 hours for security and abuse prevention.
If this article helped you, please consider supporting our work. Every small contribution keeps Abijita.com independent and running.
This update comes as Gemini is set to replace Google Assistant on Android devices later this year, bringing enhanced AI capabilities to users without compromising data privacy. For those concerned about their digital footprint, this move signals a step toward more private, AI-powered assistance on mobile devices.
