Let's face it, Google has confused some Pixel users by continuing to use "Hey Google" as its wake word. What's so confusing about that? In February 2024, Pixel users were given the option to start using Gemini AI as their virtual assistant instead of Google Assistant. \ This past September, Google did away with Google Assistant, leaving Gemini to handle system tasks (setting the alarm or timer), answering queries, and doing all the things you'd expect from an AI chatbot. Google has eliminated the toggle switch that allows users to switch between Google Assistant and Gemini, but even though the latter is the one virtual assistant offered on Pixel devices, users still say, "Hey Google" as the feature's wake word.
Now I'd be the first to admit that saying "Hello Gemini" sounds a little funny after using "Hello Google" for so long, but it is time to get into the AI era, and Google did make a huge announcement today when it revealed in a blog post that the hot word for its Android XR glasses will be "Hey Gemini."
Keep in mind that while this change is limited to the new smart glasses for now, it could be a sign that this change will be coming soon to Android handsets and tablets. In its blog post, Google says that Android XR users can activate Gemini by either tapping the frames of their glasses or by saying "Hey Gemini."
Which wake word do you prefer?
While some say that it is easier to say, "Hey Gemini," I thoroughly disagree. The latter is four syllables while the older phrase being replaced ("Hey Google") is just three syllables. Having said that, I'd still rather use "Hey Gemini" since it is the actual name of the AI assistant, saving me from having to think too much about what it is that I'm trying to do.
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Gemini as a virtual assistant on the Pixel 11 Pro XL. | Image by PhoneArena
It isn't clear when, or even if, Google intends on getting rid of the "Hello Google" wake word. It's possible that the use of "Hey Gemini" on the new Android XR glasses is a test and if all goes well, Google will introduce it to Android phones and tablets soon.
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Alan, an ardent smartphone enthusiast and a veteran writer at PhoneArena since 2009, has witnessed and chronicled the transformative years of mobile technology. Owning iconic phones from the original iPhone to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, he has seen smartphones evolve into a global phenomenon. Beyond smartphones, Alan has covered the emergence of tablets, smartwatches, and smart speakers.
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