Google Expands AI Tools to Millions of Android Devices with Major Feature Update

Google has begun rolling out one of its most significant feature upgrades in recent memory, delivering powerful artificial intelligence capabilities to over 300 million Android smartphones and wearable devices worldwide. With the push of a software update, users are now experiencing new levels of interaction through tools like Circle to Search and Gemini Live, turning everyday phones into smart, context-aware digital assistants.

This strategic update represents Google’s clearest signal yet that AI isn’t a premium feature reserved for flagship devices—it’s becoming the default experience across the Android ecosystem. With no need for users to purchase new phones or subscribe to additional services, these enhancements are arriving over-the-air and instantly reshaping how Android works for millions of people.

At the core of this rollout is Circle to Search, a tool initially introduced with Pixel 8 and Samsung Galaxy devices. The feature lets users circle any element on their screen—text, image, or object—to instantly perform a Google Search. What’s new is that the experience now supports contextual conversations. For example, if a user circles a word or product, they can begin a natural dialogue with Google’s Gemini AI assistant directly within that search interface. Follow-up questions are supported, and users don’t need to jump between apps or browser tabs.

The upgrade also includes AI Overviews, short summaries generated by Gemini to help users digest search results faster. These are particularly useful for complex queries where multiple pieces of information are needed to understand a topic clearly. Instead of reading several links, users can now view concise, AI-written responses with options to dive deeper.

In addition to the phone-based upgrades, Google is extending Gemini’s capabilities to Android smartwatches and foldable devices. The latest Galaxy Watch models and select smartwatches running Wear OS 6 will now support voice-based Gemini interactions, allowing users to perform tasks like adding calendar events, checking reminders, or setting timers with conversational prompts. These upgrades transform wearables into full AI companions, capable of assisting without ever touching a phone.

Samsung’s newly launched Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 devices are among the first foldables to take advantage of these features. Gemini is now embedded in the device’s outer display, offering users on-the-go access to powerful voice assistance and visual recognition. For example, users can point the camera at a product or landmark and receive instant, AI-powered insights—all without opening an app.

Perhaps most notable is Google’s decision to make these features universally accessible rather than exclusive to new hardware. This approach highlights the company’s long-term commitment to software-based intelligence as the backbone of its product strategy. While Apple and other competitors are exploring premium AI offerings, Google is leaning into its massive Android install base to quickly scale adoption.

The implications of this update go beyond convenience. For students, travelers, gamers, and professionals, the ability to interact naturally with on-screen content and receive meaningful answers on demand could reduce friction in daily tasks. The AI-powered summaries are expected to benefit those managing large volumes of information or working on research projects, while the wearable integrations cater to users who prefer voice-first interaction on the move.

This AI-first shift aligns with Google’s broader vision to embed helpfulness across its entire ecosystem—from mobile to desktop, smart home to wearables. By enabling rich, multimodal interactions on existing devices, Google is turning Android into a platform where the assistant doesn’t just respond—it collaborates.

As more devices receive the Android 16 update, the rollout is expected to reach virtually every major Android brand. Whether it’s through a foldable screen, a smartwatch, or a mid-range phone, users are now entering a smarter, more intuitive mobile experience—one where the line between AI and everyday tools is quickly disappearing.