Google Pushes Gemini Android Update To More Devices

Google began distributing a Gemini app update for Android that reorganizes the side panel and settings, reaching users through a server-side release rather than a new download. The changes follow the earlier Spark-to-Task modification.

The search function now sits at the top-right corner of the side panel. New chat remains the first entry, with Library moved directly beneath it from its prior position near the bottom of the drawer. The navigation drawer initially shows five recent chats, with a More option to expand the list. For AI Ultra subscribers, the full list includes New chat, Library, Images, Scheduled, Daily brief, Customize, Students, Videos, and Gems.

Settings previously split between the account menu and a separate Gemini Settings area; Google has merged them into one page. The account menu now handles only account switching, feedback, and help. The new Settings page opens with Manage account and Usage limits, followed by a Preferences section covering Notifications, Personal Intelligence, Avatar, Task settings, Theme, Skills, Voice, Media, Device controls, Cart and orders, and Gemini Notebook. Theme is marked as new. Two further sections, Data & privacy and Get support, complete the page.

The same side panel and settings changes reached iOS, macOS, and the web app last week alongside the launch of Gemini 4 Argon. Android users are seeing the update arrive more broadly now. Recent Gemini developments include Gemini Notebook becoming available as a Connected App, free users moving to Auto models as the app adds thinking levels, and a Map tool that arrived with the / shortcut being replaced by @.