Google has made a subtle but useful change to Gemini by rebranding “Gemini Extensions” to “Gemini Apps.” This shift, already showing up in the latest beta version of the Google app (version 16.8.31.sa.arm64), looks to be the beginning of a move towards a more integrated and user-friendly experience when using Gemini with existing apps.
The change is visible throughout the Gemini interface, replacing all instances of “Extensions” within settings, the account menu, and the core Gemini functionality with “Apps” instead.
For those unfamiliar, Gemini Extensions (now Apps) provide the AI with the ability to interact with various web services and device features. This includes tasks like accessing Google Calendar, summarizing YouTube videos, searching for flights via Google Flights, and controlling music playback on Spotify. These integrations are crucial for Gemini to be able to perform practical, real-world tasks using personalized and real-time data.
The logic behind this change is clear. “Extensions” carries a technical feel and suggests an add-on or optional feature; think Chrome extensions or developer tools. “Apps,” however, is a far more familiar term that is a more natural part of our daily vocabulary. It implies a fundamental, built-in component or service and really does make a lot more sense in this context.
Overall, however, don’t expect any real changes in the way these extensions/apps work at all. They will still be there to connect Gemini to the things you actually need to get done – they’ll just do so under a new name going forward.
VIA: Android Authority
