At Galaxy Unpacked in San Jose, Google introduced a series of exciting Android updates designed specifically for the Samsung Galaxy S25 series. These updates bring advanced AI features, enhanced accessibility tools, and family-friendly options, ensuring users enjoy a more seamless and dynamic experience.
Gemini: Easier Access and Expanded Capabilities
Google’s Gemini AI is now even more accessible on Samsung devices, offering powerful functionalities that cater to both casual users and tech enthusiasts.
Quick Access to Gemini
A simple long press on the side button of your Samsung Galaxy device activates Gemini instantly, ready to assist with tasks or respond to content on your screen. Advanced users will also gain access to Deep Research within the Gemini mobile app later this week. This feature is designed to help users save hours of research while on the go.
Streamlining Tasks with Gemini Extensions
Gemini now integrates seamlessly with several apps and services on Samsung devices. Beyond Google Maps, YouTube, Gmail, and Spotify, new extensions are available for Samsung Reminder, Calendar, Notes, and Clock on the Galaxy S25 series.
Gemini’s multi-extension prompts enable users to accomplish multiple tasks simultaneously. For example, you can ask Gemini to find high-protein lunch recipes and save them instantly to Samsung Notes or Google Keep. If you’re looking for outdoor restaurants, Gemini can connect to Google Maps to find options and draft a message in Google Messages to share with friends.
Gemini Live: A Smarter Conversational Tool
Gemini Live, introduced on January 22, 2025, enables real-time spoken responses, making it easier to brainstorm ideas, simplify complex topics, or rehearse important moments. The update also allows you to add images, files, and YouTube videos to conversations, providing a richer, more interactive experience.
Currently rolling out to Samsung Galaxy S24, Galaxy S25, and Pixel 9 devices, Gemini Live features will be available on more Android devices in the coming weeks.
Project Astra: Future Capabilities
Project Astra promises exciting new features for Gemini, such as screen sharing and live video streaming. These capabilities will debut on the Gemini mobile app for Android, starting with the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, and will expand to other Android devices in the coming months.
Galaxy S25’s Now Bar: Instant Updates on Your Lock Screen
The Now Bar on the Galaxy S25 brings real-time sports scores, directions, and appointment reminders right to your lock screen. Sports fans can track live updates for their favorite teams, while Google Maps integration ensures timely notifications for directions and appointments.
AI Overviews and One-Tap Actions with Circle to Search
Google’s Circle to Search now enhances visual searches with AI-powered overviews, offering easy-to-read summaries with links for further exploration.
Circle an image of a dish, landmark, or antique, and get a quick snapshot of information. Circle to Search also includes one-tap actions for tasks such as calling, emailing, or visiting websites, simplifying your user experience.
Enhanced Accessibility for Galaxy S25 Users
Google is launching significant updates to improve accessibility on Android, particularly for Samsung Galaxy S25 users. These updates cater to individuals who are d/Deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or have low vision, making Android devices more inclusive.
Improved Hearing Aid Integration with LE Audio
The new LE Audio feature on Galaxy S25 devices enhances Bluetooth technology, enabling seamless integration with GN Hearing and Oticon Intent hearing aids. Key benefits include:
- Hands-free calling through hearing aids
- Personalized audio adjustments via device settings
- Low-latency Bluetooth connection for superior audio quality
LE Audio support is also coming to the Pixel 9 with Android 16 beta and will be available on Galaxy S24 devices with Android 15 soon.
TalkBack and Braille Display Support
For users who are blind or have low vision, TalkBack 15 on the Galaxy S25 enhances accessibility by offering compatibility with braille displays that use the HID (Human Interface Device) standard. This update simplifies the process of connecting braille displays via Bluetooth, making it easier for users to interact with their devices.
In the near future, TalkBack will feature more detailed image descriptions powered by Gemini models, allowing users to better understand visual content. These updates will be available on any device running Android 15, extending improved accessibility to a wider range of users.
Galaxy Watch for Kids: Empowering Parents with Control
Google Family Link now enables parents to manage their child’s Galaxy Watch7 LTE with the Galaxy Watch for Kids experience.
This feature allows parents to approve contacts, monitor the watch’s location, manage apps, and set school-time restrictions to minimize distractions. The update is rolling out in the U.S. and is supported by major carriers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.