Google's latest Android 16 developer preview has revealed a significant development in the company's AI assistant, Gemini. According to a new API discovered in the preview, Gemini is set to gain "agentic" abilities, enabling it to take action inside apps. This move is seen as a major step forward in making AI assistants more useful and integrated into users' daily lives.

The new API, dubbed "app functions," allows app developers to expose specific actions to the system, which can then be integrated into various system features. This means that Gemini Assistant will be able to perform tasks such as ordering food or booking a ride without requiring users to open the corresponding app. The implications of this development are significant, as it brings Google's AI assistant closer to realizing its full potential.

For context, Apple is also working on a similar approach to a smarter assistant. The company's iOS 18 upgrade, expected to roll out in spring 2025, promises to enable Siri to take action in apps for users. Apple's app intents framework allows developers to expose specific functions to Siri, making it possible for the assistant to perform tasks such as ordering food or booking a ride. While Google's Gemini Assistant is still limited to accessing information in certain apps with user permission, this new development signals a significant leap forward.

The concept of "doing things for you" has been the promise of smart assistants since their inception, but it's only recently that we've seen tangible progress. With both Google and Apple laying the groundwork for more integrated and capable AI assistants, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for AI on smartphones. The potential for Gemini Assistant to take action in apps raises the stakes for competitors and sets a new standard for AI assistants.

Industry experts are eagerly anticipating the rollout of these new features, which could fundamentally change the way users interact with their devices. As AI technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of AI assistants in the future. For now, Google's Gemini Assistant is poised to take a significant leap forward, and users are likely to reap the benefits.

In conclusion, Google's latest development signals a significant shift in the AI assistant landscape. As the company continues to push the boundaries of what's possible with Gemini Assistant, users can expect a more integrated and capable AI experience. With Apple also working on similar upgrades, the future of AI on smartphones looks brighter than ever.