Google faced backlash after initially planning to restrict its Gemini Nano AI to the Pixel 8 Pro, despite the ‘vanilla’ Pixel 8 having the same chipset. However, the company has now changed its approach and will bring Gemini Nano to the Pixel 8 as well. This decision follows online criticism, with Google acknowledging the excitement among Pixel 8 owners for the AI feature. The update will arrive as a developer preview with the next Pixel Feature Drop expected in June.
Gemini Nano will enable two new features on both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro: Summarize in Recorder and Smart Reply in Gboard. These features will work offline, powered by the on-device Gemini Nano. Google has highlighted the challenges of running large language models on phones with varying memory specifications, indicating that it has rigorously tested the implementation on the Pixel 8 to ensure a consistent user experience.
The inclusion of Gemini Nano in the Pixel 8 series demonstrates Google’s commitment to enhancing the user experience through on-device AI capabilities. By extending this feature to the Pixel 8, Google aims to provide a more uniform and advanced AI experience across its flagship devices. This move not only addresses user concerns but also showcases Google’s responsiveness to feedback in refining its software offerings.
