The first developer preview of Android 16 was released last month and could change how Google Gemini works on your phone.

Over the past few months, we've heard a lot about Android 16, mainly about its shockingly early release date. There have also been reports about possible features, including changes to how we use our phones in the dark. However, a recent APK teardown from Android Authority revealed what may be the biggest change to date regarding how Gemini accesses other apps and uses AI.

Previously, lines of code found in the update indicated that Gemini could set reminders immediately through extensions. However, digging deeper revealed that it is not the only extension that may be applied in the update. Among the code, Android Authority's APK found several extensions that link to several key apps on their Samsung test devices, giving Gemini unparalleled access.

The list of possible extensions and features is quite extensive, covering many of the phone's main functions. For example, Gemini can capture images through Android's camera app, as well as create and search website bookmarks through the browser. Not only that, but Gemini also appears to be able to link with the Calendar app to create and search for events, and use the Map extension to search for routes and locations.

It will be interesting to see Gemini gain access to more apps and help set it up as a central hub for all of the device's functions. This change will be improved by the recent release of Gemini Live to Android users, which will help make conversations with AI feel seamless. This should also be a concern for Apple, which is still working to release many of the Apple Intelligence features promised at Apple's Glowtime event. This includes Personal Context, which could offer similar multi-functionality to the alleged Android 16 features.

It should be noted that the features found in the APK are not always complete, so only when Android 16 is released will we know for sure. However, it is certain that this update will provide large and small improvements to many of the best Android phones today.