Google’s Gemini AI Set to Arrive on iOS as a Standalone App

Earlier this year, Google launched a dedicated Gemini app for Android, allowing users to access the AI chatbot without having to open a new Chrome tab every time. Over time, the app added features like Gemini Live, a way to have a smooth conversation with your AI chatbot, giving Android users an edge in the AI race against iOS.

Now, it seems Google is levelling the playing field by releasing a standalone Gemini app for iOS users as well. Reports have surfaced that several users have spotted the app in the App Store, with many already able to download and test it out.

As expected, the iOS version of the app has a different user interface, designed to fit Apple’s ecosystem. A key feature is its integration with the iPhone’s Dynamic Island, allowing Gemini Live to run in the background while users still interact with the app. This, arguably, makes it feel more seamlessly integrated with iOS than it did on Android.

Aside from that, the app is mostly the same with what you would find on Android too. Right now, the app is most likely still in its testing phase as there’s been no official announcement from Google and it appears to only be available in select regions, including the Philippines.

Some speculate that it could be an 'accidental' release, similar to when Google "accidentally" launched its Jarvis AI to the public. However, since the app is still available for download, it seems likely that this release is here to stay—for now.

This move is particularly interesting given Apple’s plans to reduce its reliance on Google. But, according to Bloomberg, Apple also plans to integrate Gemini into its ecosystem, similar to its plans with ChatGPT.

Who knows? The expected ChatGPT integration with the iOS 18.2 update could feature more AI bots for users to choose to be deeply integrated with, other than ChatGPT.