How to add extensions to enhance Gemini's capabilities.

Normally, when you ask for help from Google , you would speak to Google Assistant, but Google Gemini is gradually replacing that role. If you want to fully experience the usefulness of Google's latest artificial intelligence product, you need to explore Gemini extensions to enhance its capabilities.

 

Use extensions to expand Gemini's features.

As you may already know, many Google services work together, such as Chat, Meet, Calendar, etc., within Gmail . To connect Gemini with other Google services and some popular non-Google apps, you need Gemini extensions.

For example, the Google Maps extension lets you ask Gemini quick questions about your current location, where you're going, and even the important question, "Have we arrived yet?". Many people like using this extension to help find interesting and engaging things to do while traveling.

The good news is that Gemini extensions are enabled by default on almost every device. It's easy to check by accessing the Google Gemini web extension app or opening the Gemini mobile app. In the mobile app, tap your profile icon and select Extensions .

 

From there, it's easy to enable/disable any extension. If you're unsure how to use an extension, just check the suggested prompts below each one. Most extensions are enabled by default, but a few aren't, such as YouTube Music and Google Workspace.

Additionally, you can directly open an extension while chatting on Gemini by referencing it, such as typing '@google flights' to use that extension.

Extensions are a relatively new feature for Gemini, and there should be more of them. Although the number is currently limited, Google has promised to add more extensions soon.

Available Gemini extensions

Currently, there are only 7 Gemini extensions available on the web version and 12 extensions on the Android app. Most are Google apps. As Gemini becomes more popular, you may see this list start to grow.

 

Currently, you can use:

1. Google Flights – Get real-time flight details to plan your trips better.
2. Google Workspace – Integrates with some of the most popular Google Workspace applications, including Docs, Calendar, Gmail, Keep, Tasks, and Drive. You must have a Google Workspace account before linking this extension to Gemini.
3. Google Hotels – Find hotels by listing the features that matter most to you.
4. Google Maps – Use Maps to find local attractions, help with travel planning, and explore more about the area around you.
5. YouTube – Search on YouTube and view detailed information about the video.
6. YouTube Music – Search and play music on YouTube Music. Get creative with prompts, such as searching for collaborations or music for different moods instead of specific songs or artists.
7. OpenStax – Works with textbooks licensed from OpenStax.

The Android app adds:

1. Messages – Send messages to others directly through the Gemini extension.
2. Phone – Make calls directly through Gemini.
3. Spotify – Access and play music from your Spotify app.
4. Utilities – Control various functions on your phone, such as setting timers, changing settings, opening apps, or even taking photos.
5. WhatsApp – Make calls or send messages via WhatsApp using Gemini.

You should check back about once a month or after any major updates to the Google Gemini app to see if any new Gemini extensions have been added. Currently, Google has not announced any timelines for new extensions or which apps they are collaborating with.

Remember, you are free to turn any extension on or off. Want to use only YouTube? Turn off all the other extensions.

Pay close attention to what types of data are shared when you enable an extension. For example, if you enable Spotify, your profile and music data will be shared with Google. This makes sense because Gemini needs this information to process any Spotify requests you make. You also need the appropriate accounts to use specific Gemini extensions. For example, to use the Spotify extension, you need a Spotify account and the Spotify app.

If you prefer using only Chrome extensions on Android rather than Gemini's extensions, learn how to enable them. And, until Gemini adds more extensions, try these Chrome extensions to boost your productivity .