The Gemini app on Android has redesigned voice input to take after social messaging apps.
Previously, tapping the microphone icon in Gemini’s prompt box results in a blue pulsating circle as transcribed text appears in real-time above. This design is still in place for the Gemini overlay when you swipe up from the corners or hold down on the power button.
This redesign replaces the text field with a waveform. On first launch, Google explains: “When you’re done speaking, tap Stop or Send.”
Tapping the “Stop” button that appears at the end will bring back the prompt box with your text transcribed. If you press the mic again, what you previously entered will not be removed.
The “Send” circle — which slightly pulsates — immediately enters the command. Users get to see what they said above as the prompt runs. If you don’t do anything, voice input stays active for a while.
Visually and functionally, this design takes after voice memos in messaging apps. Not being able to see a live preview of what you entered feels a bit strange in the context of transcription, but less so in recordings. Google presumably has user testing that shows people don’t really edit what they transcribe, with chatbots in general quite good at overlooking typos.
If you prefer the old behavior, you can always use your keyboard’s voice dictation or the Gemini overlay.
We’re seeing Gemini’s new voice input widely rolled out with the latest Google app stable and beta. It’s not yet live on iOS.
More on Gemini:
- Gemini app making ‘Temporary chats’ easier to start
- Gemini screen automation rolling out to Pixel 10 series
- Google rolling out Personal Intelligence to free Gemini, Chrome, & AI Mode users
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