A software update for compatible smartphones has enabled Gemini AI functionality for use with earbuds. This integration allows users to access Gemini through their earbuds, requiring the smartphone to run Gemini for processing the requests.
The Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro earbuds do not directly house Gemini AI capabilities. Instead, the functionality is provided through a software update on the connected smartphone. This enhancement does not incur additional costs for users. The availability of Gemini AI through earbuds necessitates Android 16, representing the upcoming major iteration of the Android operating system.
Currently, the recently launched Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 are the initial Samsung smartphones operating on One UI, which is based on Android 16. Owners of these devices can configure Gemini by navigating to Voice Controls within the Samsung application and selecting “Set Up Google Assistant.” In contrast, owners of Galaxy S25 devices, where One UI is presently in beta, must await the public release of One UI to access this feature.
Reports from 9to5Google indicate that the setup process for Gemini AI integration has encountered issues for some users. Specifically, the option to establish Gemini AI integration was not present for a user with a combination of a Samsung Z Fold7, which runs One UI, and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro earbuds. As Gemini is a Google technology, its integration is not limited to Samsung earbuds. This non-exclusivity means the AI assistant support extends beyond Samsung’s proprietary audio devices.
