A new chapter has begun for the Samsung side button. During Samsung Unpacked 2025 on Wednesday, the company revealed a subtle yet significant change coming to the Galaxy S25 series. With a growing emphasis on mobile AI, Samsung is facilitating easier access to Google Gemini through this button.
This announcement comes on the heels of multiple unsuccessful attempts to promote Samsung’s own Bixby smart assistant. Additionally, it follows the news that Gemini is set to take over from Google Home on Android devices, although Bixby will continue to function in smart home devices like the Nest thermostat.
Generative AI, particularly Gemini, was a focal point during Wednesday’s Unpacked event. Mobile manufacturers are increasingly turning to such platforms—alongside Apple’s Intelligence and ChatGPT—to provide justification for device updates that were once primarily associated with hardware enhancements. Nonetheless, the capabilities of the S25 continue to be powered by neural cores within the new Snapdragon 8 Elite chip.
In line with Apple’s latest improvements to Siri, Gemini provides enhanced cross-app functionality, integrating with Google applications like Maps, YouTube, and Messages, as well as Spotify. Additionally, it offers access to essential Samsung applications such as Reminder, Calendar, Notes, and Clock.
Similar to Google’s transition with Home, Samsung has not completely abandoned Bixby. Earlier this month at CES, the company highlighted how the smart assistant will continue to serve its purpose through various appliances and other home products.
The Samsung Galaxy S25 series is now available for preorder and is scheduled to begin shipping on February 7.
Compiled by Techarena.au.
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