Gemini for Android adds file sharing
Google has enhanced file analysis on Android devices with its AI assistant, Gemini. The latest update allows users to seamlessly share files from any app to Gemini for immediate examination. This new feature is part of Gemini v1.0.686588308, enabling users to upload up to ten files simultaneously for analysis. Prior to this update, users had to navigate through several steps within the Gemini app or Google Drive to upload files. With the latest update, users can attach and analyze files directly from other apps, making the process much simpler.
Supported File Types
Gemini supports various file types for analysis, including:
- Plain text files: TXT
- Code files: C, CPP, PY, JAVA, PHP, SQL, HTML
- Document files: DOC, DOCX, PDF, RTF, DOT, DOTX, HWP, HWPX, Google Docs
- Tabular data files: CSV, TSV
- Spreadsheet files: XLS, XLSX, Google Sheets
This update significantly enhances the file analysis experience by reducing the need to switch between apps. Users can access this feature in the latest version of Gemini, now available for download. Google is seeking feedback from users who have tested the new functionality to further enhance the AI assistant's capabilities.
Folder Upload Feature
In addition to file sharing, Gemini has introduced a new feature that allows users to upload entire folders containing a codebase. Users can select one folder per chat session, with support for up to 1,000 files per folder and a total size limit of 100 megabytes. After uploading a folder, users can query Gemini about the codebase. While the feature works well with smaller codebases, it may encounter challenges with larger folders.
During analysis, Gemini reads the files and performs the necessary analysis, suggesting the use of structured reasoning or a chain of thought. The rollout of the codebase analysis feature is ongoing, with availability to all users yet to be confirmed. This update reflects Google's efforts to compete with tools like ChatGPT and Claude, which offer similar capabilities for codebases and multi-file folders.
Future Enhancements
Rumors speculate future enhanced features and capabilities within Gemini, although concrete details are awaited until Google makes official announcements. For now, users can leverage the convenience of sharing files directly to Gemini from any supported app on their Android device.
