Gemini’s Biggest Upgrade Yet: New Connected Apps
Google Gemini Gets Superpowers: New Apps Let You Do More Without Leaving the Chat
The Big News: At the "Made by Google" event, Google announced that Gemini (their AI assistant) is getting a major upgrade. Soon, you’ll be able to connect your favorite apps directly to Gemini so you can plan trips, book dinner, summarize meetings, and even control smart home stuff—all inside one conversation.
What Is Gemini, Anyway?
Think of Gemini like a super-smart digital helper that lives on your phone or computer. You type or talk to it, and it answers questions, writes emails, plans trips, or helps you learn new things.
Now, it’s learning to use your apps. Instead of switching between five different apps to get something done, you just tell Gemini what you need—and it handles the rest.
What’s Coming? (Categories & Apps)
Over the next few weeks, Gemini will let you connect apps from these six categories:
Productivity & Creativity
Get work done faster.
- Granola – Summarize meetings automatically
- Otter.ai – Turn voice recordings into searchable notes
- Wix – Edit your website without opening a browser
Local & Entertainment
Book fun stuff nearby.
- Fever – Discover local events and experiences
- GetYourGuide – Book tours and activities
- Localiza – Rent a car
- OpenTable (UK) – Reserve a restaurant table
- Ticketmaster – Search and buy event tickets
Music
Play what you love, instantly.
- iHeartRadio – Discover new radio stations
- Pandora – Stream personalized playlists
Home, Health & Lifestyle
Real-life help, right from chat.
- Angi – Find home professionals (plumbers, cleaners, etc.)
- Thumbtack – Hire local pros for any job
- Zocdoc – Book doctor appointments
How Will This Work? (Simple Steps)
Important: You don’t need to do anything yet. These features are rolling out over the next few weeks. When ready, here’s how it’ll work:
- Open Gemini on your phone or computer
- Go to Settings → look for “Connected Apps” or “Extensions”
- Pick the apps you use (like OpenTable, Spotify, or Zocdoc)
- Sign in to each app once (securely, through Google)
- Start asking!
“Book a table for two at an Italian place nearby Thursday at 7”
“Summarize my 10 AM meeting from Otter”
“Play my ‘Focus’ playlist on Pandora”
Why This Matters (ELI5 Version)
| Before | After |
|---|---|
| Open 5 apps to plan dinner + a movie + a ride | Type one sentence in Gemini |
| Copy-paste meeting notes into a doc | Say “summarize my meeting” → done |
| Call three places to find a plumber | Ask Gemini → it finds & books via Angi |
You save time. You stay in one place. You get more done.
Summary
- Google Gemini is getting connected apps—like plug-ins for your AI assistant.
- Six categories: Productivity, Local/Entertainment, Music, Home, Health, Lifestyle.
- Big names included: Ticketmaster, OpenTable, Zocdoc, Wix, Otter.ai, Pandora, and more.
- Rollout: Happening over the next few weeks.
- You stay in control: Only connect the apps you want. No auto-sharing.
FAQ
Do I have to pay extra for this?
Nope! If you already use Gemini (free or paid), these connections will be free. Some apps (like Ticketmaster) may charge for tickets—but Gemini just helps you book them.
Is my data safe?
Yes. You must explicitly connect each app and sign in yourself. Google doesn’t auto-share your data. You can disconnect anytime.
What if I don’t see these options yet?
They’re rolling out gradually. Check back in a week or two—look for “Extensions” or “Connected Apps” in Gemini settings.
Can I use this on iPhone and Android?
Yes! Gemini works on both. The app connections will work wherever Gemini runs.
Will more apps be added later?
Almost certainly. Google called this a “new slate”—meaning first batch. Expect more partners soon.
Ready to try it? Keep an eye on your Gemini app. When you see “Connect Apps” or “Extensions”—tap it, pick your favorites, and start bossing your AI around like a pro.