Google has recently reversed its controversial decision to exclude the Pixel 8 from the Gemini Nano features, which had initially led to significant backlash. Originally, the tech giant announced that the Pixel 8 would not support these advanced on-device AI capabilities, causing disappointment among users. However, in a welcome update, Google confirmed that both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a will indeed receive the Gemini Nano features. While the AI functionalities themselves are not yet available, users can prepare their devices by enabling the Gemini Nano option.
Unlike many software updates where new features are automatically enabled, the Pixel 8’s Gemini Nano must be activated manually. This is because the necessary features have not yet been activated on the device’s chip. Google has now introduced a toggle within the developer settings to facilitate this activation. Here’s a detailed guide on how to enable Gemini Nano on your Pixel 8.
Step-by-Step Guide to Activate Gemini Nano on Pixel 8
1. Enable Developer Settings:
To begin, you need to enable developer settings on your Pixel 8. Follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your device.
- Scroll down and select About Phone.
- Locate the Build Number towards the bottom of the list.
- Tap the build number seven times. You will see a popup indicating that developer mode has been enabled.
2. Access AICore Settings:
With developer mode enabled, proceed to the following steps to access the Gemini Nano toggle:
- Return to Settings.
- Navigate to System.
- Tap on Developer options.
- Find and select AICore Settings.
3. Enable Gemini Nano:
In the AICore Settings menu, you should see an option labelled Enable on-device Gemini features if the toggle is available on your device.
- Simply tap the toggle to activate it.
Enabling this toggle now prepares your device for the upcoming release of Gemini Nano features. Although these features are not yet functional, enabling the toggle ensures your device is ready to receive them as soon as they become available.
What Does Enabling Gemini Nano Do?
Currently, enabling the Gemini Nano toggle does not activate any immediate features on your Pixel 8. Google has yet to release the specific on-device AI functionalities associated with Gemini Nano for this device. Users will need to wait for a future Android Feature Drop to access these capabilities.
Google’s latest feature drop in May introduced eight new features, indicating a continued commitment to enhancing the user experience through regular updates. While the exact timing of the Gemini Nano feature release remains uncertain, the tech community is optimistic that it will be included in an upcoming update.
Future Developments
The excitement surrounding Gemini Nano highlights the growing significance of on-device AI capabilities in improving smartphone functionality. These features are expected to bring notable enhancements in personalisation, performance, and security. By enabling the toggle now, Pixel 8 users are ensuring their devices are ready to take advantage of these advancements as soon as they are rolled out.
As we await further announcements from Google, it is advisable to stay informed about future feature drops and updates. Keeping your device updated will ensure you do not miss out on the latest innovations and improvements.
In summary, while enabling the Gemini Nano toggle on the Pixel 8 may seem like a minor step, it is crucial in preparing your device for future updates. This proactive measure ensures that users are well-positioned to benefit from the advanced AI features that Google plans to introduce. As technology continues to evolve, staying ahead with timely updates and feature activations remains essential to maximising your smartphone’s potential.
