Unlocking Potential: How Android 16 Might Enable Gemini to Order Food

Android 16 might let Gemini order food for you

Android 16 could potentially introduce a new API that would allow Gemini to directly control apps, including booking flights or ordering food. Recent developer documentation in Android 16 DP1 hints at a new method of integrating app functions into system features. This mysterious API suggests that app functions such as food ordering might be possible, indicating the potential for an enhanced digital assistant.

Integration of Gemini with Android 16

Google appears to be fully embracing Gemini, an AI assistant that is seamlessly integrated into various systems and is even the default voice assistant on many of the latest Android phones. However, up until now, Gemini has been lacking the ability to control phone functions and third-party apps in the same way that Google Assistant can. This could change with the release of Android 16 next year.

New Opportunities for Gemini

The introduction of a new API suggests that apps could work directly with Gemini, opening up a range of possibilities for users. Google's description of app functions is still vague, but the documentation provides an example of an app function related to ordering food. This hints at the potential for apps to define functions that Gemini can execute, offering a new level of control and convenience.

Gemini currently relies on extensions to interact with external services, such as a Calendar extension or web services extension for accessing Google Hotels. While Gemini can retrieve data from these extensions, they only allow for backend API calls and do not enable direct control over the app itself. For example, users can ask Gemini about their flight status but cannot ask it to book a flight on their behalf.

The Future of AI Assistants

With the evolution of AI technology, Google teased a new Google Assistant back in 2019 that aimed to streamline multitasking across apps using voice commands. This aligns closely with the capabilities that AI agents are striving to achieve today. Given Google's ongoing efforts in this space, Android 16 could mark a significant step forward in enabling true AI-driven app functions through Gemini.

As Google continues to innovate, the integration of Android 16 with Gemini could revolutionize the way users interact with apps and digital assistants. By leveraging the new app functions feature, Gemini may soon have the ability to control apps directly, offering a more seamless and efficient user experience.

For more information, you can check out the full article on Android Authority.