Google has released the first developer preview of Android 16, and with this version it brings an innovation that can increase the functionality of artificial intelligence-supported assistants. A new API called “app functions” allows Google’s artificial intelligence assistant Gemini to perform operations within applications. This feature could enable users to perform certain tasks through the assistant without opening applications. Thus, artificial intelligence assistants can become a platform that facilitates daily operations rather than just a tool that provides information.
How do App Functions work?
According to Google’s developer documentation, app functions represent specific pieces of functionality that an app provides to the system. Thanks to this API, application developers can open certain tasks to Gemini and enable processing directly through the assistant. For example, a food ordering app can allow users to order food through the assistant without opening the app, thanks to this feature.
According to analysis by Mishaal Rahman, this functionality can be integrated into various features throughout the system. If the user gives permission, Gemini will be able to perform certain operations by accessing the applications. This reveals the potential for Google to take its assistant from a structure that only provides information to a more active role in daily life.
This move by Google makes the idea of “doing things for you” promised by smart assistants more concrete. Currently, Gemini can only offer information search functionality in certain applications such as Gmail or Google Maps. However, with this new API, it will be possible for the assistant to perform operations without switching between applications.
This development shows Google’s effort to make its artificial intelligence assistant more accessible and useful for users. It is thought that these innovations, which will be introduced with Android 16, can provide a significant advantage, especially for users who want to speed up their daily workflows.