AI
Gemini Nano AI arriving for Google Pixel 8, 8a with June 2024 update
Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a would get the Gemini Nano AI model with June 2024 update. At the time of launch, the company confirmed its AI model is only supported on the Pixel 8 Pro. Later in March, Google took a U-turn, pledging Gemini Nano release by June 2024.
Pixel 8 already supports some AI features, powered by cloud processing. To enable on-device AI features, phones are required to have an AI model installed like Gemini Nano. Recently, Google updated Android AICore to add a toggle specifically for generative AI features on Pixel 8 and 8a.
The updated Android AICore replaced the old toggle with a new one tagged Enable on-device GenAI Features, and will “enable GenAI features that will run through AICore, using Gemini.” This change is observed in AICore version 0.release.pixel8.636144055.
A Pixel 8 user via MishaalRahman got the updated toggle, confirming the imminent arrival. Besides silent addition, the toggle is turned off by default, as Google already confirmed Gemini Nano will be an opt-in feature for the non-Pro model of the Pixel 8 series.
Gemini Nano is about to roll out to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a, as promised!
One Pixel 8 user informed me today that they now have an "enable on-device GenAI Features" toggle under Settings > System > Developer options > AICore Settings. This toggle "enable[s] GenAI features… pic.twitter.com/PE3RuqIX45
— Mishaal Rahman (@MishaalRahman) May 29, 2024
Pixel 8a comes with the same Tensor G3 chip as the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. RAM and memory configurations are also identical, suggesting Gemini Nano would also come to Pixel 8a. Well, it remains to be seen whether Google brings it to the affordable Pixel or not.
Gemini Nano is Google’s first commercialized AI model for mobile devices. Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series and Pixel 8 Pro are equipped with this technology. However, it will be expanding to at least two more Pixel smartphones with the June 2024 Feature Drop.