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AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – If you’ve ever asked Siri a question and immediately thought, “That’s not what I meant,” you’re not alone.
While Apple’s voice assistant is fine for simple tasks, many iPhone users are turning to a different AI app when they need real answers.
One of my picks for Apps of the Year is Google Gemini, a free AI assistant that brings Google’s search power and conversational AI to your iPhone. It’s especially impressive when it comes to complex questions, planning, and everyday productivity.
Google Gemini is Google’s generative AI platform, designed to answer questions, summarize information, and help with tasks by tapping directly into Google’s vast search ecosystem. Android users have had deep access to Gemini for years, but until recently, iPhone users had to jump through extra hoops to use it.
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That’s changed.
While Gemini still isn’t voice-activated on iPhone like Siri, Google has made it much easier to use. You can now access Gemini directly from a locked iPhone using lock screen widgets.
Here’s how to set it up:
The Open Mic widget launches Gemini into a live conversation mode called Talk Live, where you can speak naturally instead of typing.
Once activated, Gemini feels more like a real assistant than a traditional voice command tool. You can have natural back-and-forth conversations, dictate emails, build travel itineraries, add calendar events, and even track spending.
Gemini also integrates directly with Google Workspace, making it especially useful if you rely on Gmail, Google Calendar, Docs, or Drive.
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For example, you can ask Gemini to: • Search your Gmail inbox for receipts • Summarize long email threads • Help plan trips or events • Answer detailed follow-up questions
Another reason Gemini stands out is how often it improves. Google updates Gemini continuously, sometimes weekly, adding new features and smarter responses without requiring major app updates.
Siri, by comparison, gets its biggest changes once a year with new versions of iOS. That slower update cycle is one reason Gemini often feels noticeably smarter over time.
Siri is still the best option for simple system tasks like setting timers, controlling smart home devices, or changing phone settings. But when you need deeper answers, better planning help, or more natural conversations, Gemini is a powerful addition to your iPhone.
You can’t summon Gemini with just your voice yet, but adding it to your lock screen is a game-changer for moments when Siri falls short.
Google Gemini earns its place as one of my Apps of the Year, and it’s absolutely worth trying if you’re an iPhone user who wants a smarter assistant.
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