Google withdraws Gemini from Google app, necessitating iOS users to download the application individually.
Let's talk about Google's questionable move on iOS
I can't help but shake my head at Google for shooting itself in the foot, yet again. WTF was that move about, Google? Previously, you could access the Gemini AI from the Google app on iOS. Now, they've pulled a fast one, and it's nowhere to be found for iOS users.
Check out this screenshot from the good ol' days:
Google was using the Google app to promote Gemini, and it was a smart move considering the millions of downloads the app already had. By adding Gemini to the Google app, users could access it without having to download anything extra.
Meta has been playing the same game with Meta AI by integrating it into their apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and Instagram. It's a cunning move that could potentially net billions of users without them even realizing it. And it's worked wonders for Meta AI, as it's our website community's favorite chatbot thanks to its easy access.
Why did Google make this mess? Well, they sent an email with a heading along the lines of, "Ta-ta, Gemini! You won't find us in the Google app anymore!"
They go on to say that they're making changes to create a "better Gemini experience on iOS." So now, Gemini is available as its own standalone app, and that's where users should go to get their AI fix. Of course, this means iOS users will have to download another app, which is going to put a lot of them off.
It's a dumb move, especially if you look at how things shake down in countries like Zimbabwe. People in those areas don't really bother with the app-downloading thing.
Accessibility vs. Adoption
Google's decision seems like a bonafide head-scratcher since they previously pushed for Gemini's adoption by integrating it into their existing services. Now, they're withdrawing it and making it harder to access for iOS users.
Over the years, we've Learned Time and Again that accessibility boosts adoption. Meta understands this because they've integrated their AI into their popular apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and Instagram. The same goes for Microsoft with Copilot in Windows. X with Grok. But Google? They're only making things difficult for users.
Let's see how this plays out in the long run, but for now, Google has made it harder for iOS users to access their AI. And you can bet your bottom dollar that their competitors are celebrating.
Different Experience on Android
However, on Android, Google is taking a different approach. They're integrating Gemini directly into the operating system, making it a walk in the park for Android users to access their AI without any download headaches. That's not possible on iOS, where Apple isn't about to allow Google to intertwine Gemini into their iOS.
By embedding Gemini into Android, Google can leverage their colossal user base, offering a seamless and integrated AI experience. Android users will be able to access Gemini without downloading additional apps or navigating through barriers since many users already have Google services tightly integrated into their devices.
iOS users, on the other hand, will have to download an extra app, along with the Google app. That doesn't add up in my book, but what do I know?
Despite the ease of access previously offered by integrating Gemini AI into the Google app on iOS, Google's decision to remove it now forces users to download an additional app.
This contrasts with Google's strategy on Android, where they are embedding Gemini directly into the operating system, offering an integrated and seamless AI experience without the need for extra downloads.
