Gemini just unlocked a new way to install your Google Play apps

Google has announced that the Google Play connected app for Gemini is rolling out on Android. It lets you discover, install and even buy in-app items just by asking Gemini. It's Android-only for now, so on a Pixel 10 Pro you're set, while iPhone owners sit this out.

Gemini can now find and install apps for you

Google has announced that the Google Play connected app for Gemini is now rolling out on Android, folding app discovery straight into your chat. Instead of scrolling the Play Store, you can describe what you need, like "find a productivity app to help me with meal planning," and Gemini suggests options.

Tapping an app opens its Play Store page to finish the install. You can also ask for an app by name, search for in-app items and even buy a Google Play gift card from the chat.

Google keeps folding Gemini into more of your phone

This fits a pattern we've watched all year. Google has been steadily wiring Gemini into the rest of its apps, and earlier this year it gained the ability to pull from your Gmail, Photos and YouTube. The Play Store piece does the same for app discovery.



For anyone who finds app-hunting tedious, that's the draw. There are limits, though. It's Android-only for now, and Google notes availability varies by country and device.

iPhone owners can sit this one out, since Gemini on iOS doesn't get the Play integration.

Who this helps, and what you need to switch it on

It mostly helps people who already lean on Gemini and dislike scrolling the Play Store. Before you start, Google lists a few requirements:

• You need to be 18 or over.
• The Play Store app must be on your Android phone.
• You must be signed into Gemini with a personal Google Account.
• "Keep Activity" must be on, or Gemini can't connect to Google Play.

Here's how to connect Google Play to Gemini

1. Open the Gemini app on your Android phone or tablet.
2. Make sure you're signed in to the same account you use with Google Play.
3. Ask Gemini to find an app, like "what are some meditation apps?"
4. If Google Play isn't connected, you'll get the option to connect it.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

I'm waiting on it to reach my own phone

I tried it on my own phone, but the connected app hasn't reached my account yet, so I'm going off Google's description for now. Google's own example though, finding an app while traveling abroad, is precisely what I'd want it for.

I always scramble for a transit app before a trip, so having Gemini surface one sounds like a real time-saver. I'm hoping it reaches my Pixel soon, so I can see whether it beats the Play Store search.

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