Google has confirmed an unexpected U-turn, announcing a significant upgrade for Pixel 8 users in the upcoming feature drop. The new upgrade, Gemini Nano, was initially deemed incompatible with the Pixel 8 due to hardware limitations. However, Google has reversed its decision, much to the delight of Pixel 8 owners.
In a statement released on March 28, Google explained that the performance of large language models can vary across devices with different memory specifications. The company has been conducting extensive testing to ensure a consistent user experience on the Pixel 8. With the upcoming feature drop, Google aims to provide enthusiasts and developers with the opportunity to explore Gemini Nano, fostering innovation and gathering valuable feedback.
When the initial announcement was made by a Google engineer, it sparked controversy as the Pixel 8 Pro had already integrated Gemini Nano since December, despite both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro running on the same Tensor G3 processor. Speculation arose regarding the hardware limitations, potentially linked to the variance in RAM levels between the two models, with the Pro boasting 12GB of RAM compared to the Pixel 8’s 8GB.
Google’s decision to include Gemini Nano in the next Pixel feature drop, anticipated in June, has been met with enthusiasm. However, the activation process will require users to navigate to the Developer options within Settings, select About Phone, and tap the build number seven times to enable the feature. Google has emphasized the need for caution, with Seang Chau, Google’s VP of Devices and Services Software, highlighting ongoing system health validations to ensure a seamless user experience, even for developers using their phones regularly.
Notably, Gemini Nano will be limited to two features: Summarize in Recorder, which generates a summary of transcripts from the Recorder app, and Smart Reply capabilities in GBoard, facilitating conversational smart replies in messaging applications.
This development is a significant win for Pixel 8 owners, who eagerly anticipate the next feature drop to experience the enhanced capabilities offered by Gemini Nano.
