Google is rolling out a major update to its Gemini AI platform that changes the way mobile users interact with artificial intelligence on Android devices. With its latest improvement, Gemini can now work in split-screen mode alongside other apps, allowing the AI assistant to work in context with what’s on your phone’s screen – without you having to switch between apps.
Bring AI into your workflow
Traditionally, AI assistants on smartphones have existed in separate interfaces: you open a chat window, ask a question, and then switch back to the app of your choice once you get an answer. Google’s new split-screen implementation breaks this pattern. Now Gemini can appear alongside another app in a dedicated area and actively support you in your work.
For example, when composing an email or message, Gemini can suggest wording, refine the text, or draft responses in real time. When you read a long article or document in a browser, AI can pull out key points or summaries without interrupting your reading flow. In messaging apps, users can ask Gemini to help with suggested replies or generate quick replies based on the conversation displayed on the screen.
This update is part of Google’s broader effort to make its AI tools more supportive, not just reactive. Instead of waiting for a user to ask a question, Gemini can now be a contextual partner that actively contributes to your tasks.
The split-screen feature is already available for select Android devices and compatible apps and appears as an “Open Gemini” option next to supported applications. Once activated, the AI panel remains visible and interactive while the primary app continues to display.
A major shift in mobile AI design
This move reflects a broader shift in the way manufacturers and developers think about artificial intelligence on mobile platforms. Instead of treating AI as a separate service that users use occasionally, companies like Google are embracing AI-powered multitasking, where generative intelligence becomes part of everyday mobile workflows.
Competitors such as Apple and Microsoft have also signaled interest in deeper AI integration into their respective operating systems. Microsoft is exploring AI tools in Windows apps, while Apple is preparing its on-device AI services in iOS. Google’s split-screen implementation represents one of the most advanced examples of contextual AI integration on Android to date.
For users, this development means less context switching. No more copying text from an app, opening and pasting it back into a separate AI interface – Gemini can be right next to your content, understanding what you’re doing and suggesting improvements on the fly.
The benefits may seem subtle at first glance, but in practice they are significant
By streamlining tasks like writing answers, summarizing long-form content, or generating ideas, you can save time and reduce friction in routine processes. Students researching topics, professionals juggling communications, or casual users trying to extract insights from articles will find the new split-screen Gemini a convenient addition.
Privacy-conscious individuals will also appreciate that Gemini’s split-screen tools work in the context of their existing apps, rather than routing data through separate windows or services.
What’s next for Gemini and mobile AI?
Google’s rollout is still in its early stages and not all devices or apps support the split-screen feature. But the groundwork is being laid for even deeper integrations, with third-party apps potentially providing richer interfaces that Gemini can leverage to provide more personalized support. Developers could eventually give Gemini access to app content in a structured way, similar to desktop AI plugins.
As AI becomes more integrated into operating systems, experiences like split-screen multitasking could soon become commonplace, blurring the line between app and assistant. Google’s latest move with Gemini hints at a future where your phone’s AI doesn’t just answer questions, but helps you get things done.
