A Gemini AI button may appear on the Android lock screen in the near future

Google is reportedly working on integrating a dedicated Gemini AI button on the Android lock screen. According to Android Authority, a flag found in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2 suggests that this feature could provide another way to access the Gemini AI assistant. While the button does not currently function, it appears to be a pill-shaped icon below the fingerprint reader with a sparkle symbol in the center, and it is larger than the existing lock screen shortcuts. This could signal an early step in integrating Gemini or AI features into Android 16, which is expected to launch in the second quarter of next year.

Android 16 is anticipated to bring various new features, including updates to notifications, Quick Settings, and a new Advanced Protection mode. It may also include AI-related enhancements, with this lock screen button potentially serving as a shortcut to those capabilities.

Currently, users can summon the Gemini chatbot by long-pressing the power button, using the home button with three-button navigation, or swiping up from the corner with gesture navigation. Voice commands like “Hey Google” or “OK Google” can also activate the assistant, which will either be Google Assistant or Gemini, depending on the device’s age.

Additionally, Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2 introduces updates for big-screen devices like foldables, testing a new taskbar feature. This feature updates app suggestions to display the two most recently used applications. Currently, Pixel device taskbars show up to six pinned apps and two suggested ones, though the apps visible are based on usage patterns and routines.

The Android taskbar, first introduced a few years ago, facilitates quicker app switching. Initially, it spanned the entire bottom of the screen. However, with Android 13 QPR2, Google made the taskbar hidden by default for foldable devices, showing it only when swiping up, earning it the name “transient taskbar”. Android 15 now allows users to switch between the traditional “persistent” taskbar and the newer transient one. If the updated taskbar is officially released, it could improve user experience on Android tablets and foldable devices.