July 7th will mark a turning point for Android users.Google has announced a significant update to Gemini, its AI-powered assistant, which will allow a much deeper interaction with mobile applications such as Phone, Messages, or WhatsApp. This change will be automatic and will affect most devices, regardless of whether the user had enabled Gemini's well-known "App Activity" feature.
For days now, numerous people have reported receiving official emails warning them of this adjustment. The notice indicates that Gemini may help with functions such as sending messages, making calls, or managing basic mobile utilities., even if “App Activity” is disabled. This means that The assistant will be able to operate in local mode on several applications, which facilitates tasks and automates common processes on Android.
However, The news has raised privacy concernsMany users, experts and media have pointed out the ambiguity of Google's explanations about the limits of access Gemini will have to personal data and private conversations, especially in apps as sensitive as WhatsApp.
How will the new Gemini integration work with your apps?
The update will allow Gemini Manage everyday tasks, such as sending messages, initiating calls, or setting remindersTo do this, you will access the functions of the installed applications, even if the user has disabled the option for Gemini to record their activity. Google emphasizes that this integration seeks to the simplest everyday experience and have the assistant work as a local helper on the device.
While this flexibility offers significant advantages in comfort and efficiency, Not everyone sees it with good eyesThe main concerns revolve around whether Gemini will be able to read conversations, access call history, or manipulate personal data, as well as how easily it can be disabled.
Google responds that users will retain control- From Gemini's app settings, you can disable connection to specific apps at any time. By disabling "App Activity," Gemini chats and activities They will not be reviewed or used to improve AI models.. Even so, the conversations held with Gemini can be stored for up to 72 hours for security reasons, although they are not used for system training purposes.
To adjust these permissions, simply open the Gemini app, tap on your profile, and review the Activity and App Connection sections. Gemini's access is reversible at any time, but it's not always clear what's happening in the background, as Google admits that some features still require specific permissions to function properly.
User concerns and key points regarding privacy
Lack of detail in warnings and settings This has led both users and specialized publications to warn of a possible loss of privacy or control about your communications and personal files. Although the company insists that the new integration It does not imply that Gemini accesses or uses private conversations for training if the user deactivates it., it is acknowledged that there is data that is temporarily stored for technical and security reasons.
Additionally, the procedure to disable or limit Gemini's access to applications it is not always intuitive. Menu scrolling, ambiguous terminology, and a lack of concrete examples in official help leave many doubtful of its true ability to maintain privacy. Google recommends periodically reviewing your settings, clearing your interaction history if necessary, and staying alert for future updates or policy changes.
On the other hand, the integration of Gemini points to a gradual replacement of Google Assistant. In fact, Gemini is expected to take center stage on Android devices in the coming months. and manage functions in other environments such as smartwatches, connected cars, or the smart home. Google's ambition with Gemini is to make it a more proactive, adaptive, and personal assistant, but always under the premise of transparent privacy management.
Ultimately, Gemini's update to integrate with Android apps represents a further step in automating and personalizing mobile usage.While Google assures the protection of private data and offers control options, the lack of detail and complexity of the options raise questions. Privacy-conscious users will need to carefully review their settings before July 7 to truly take control of how Gemini interacts with their apps and personal data.
