Recent thorough investigations into the code for Google’s Gemini application on Wear OS indicate that the company might be aiming to resolve one of its most frustrating limitations. As Google gradually extends Gemini’s availability to additional products and platforms—having recently made its way to Google TV—it seems reasonable for the tech company to smooth out the rough edges during the process.
Google introduced Gemini to Wear OS a few months back, delivering the capabilities of its AI assistant right to your wrist. There are intentions to expand its reach even further, including Android Auto. However, as the company deploys the AI features, it also needs to address persistent problems and bugs diligently. One specific challenge that has been affecting Gemini on Wear OS is the requirement to engage the microphone button to communicate with it hands-free. Fortunately, this may soon change, as an APK teardown by Android Authority indicates that Google is planning to enable true hands-free operation for Gemini on Android smartwatches.
True hands-free operation should be genuinely hands-free
This isn’t the first instance of users expressing dissatisfaction with the need for user interaction to engage Gemini hands-free. Feedback from the community hints that Gemini has yet to serve as a complete substitute for Google Assistant, as many had anticipated. Nevertheless, each new update nudges the AI assistant closer to being a true replacement for Google Assistant. This appears to align with the expectations from the latest code discovery in the Gemini application for Wear OS.
A specific code snippet located in the newest app version—1.26.6.804623660—suggests that Gemini may soon accommodate “open mic” capabilities. This enhancement would mean users wouldn’t have to press the microphone button to pose a follow-up question to Gemini after their initial inquiry. Regrettably, the individuals who uncovered the code were unable to activate this feature, so details on its potential operation within Wear OS devices remain scarce.
Additionally, Google has yet to provide any confirmation regarding the timely arrival of this feature or its existence at all. As with any APK teardown of this nature, the code strings merely indicate that Google is exploring solutions for existing issues or lacking features. It does not ensure that the functionality will actually be implemented. However, it is hoped that the company will follow through with this modification.
