Google AI feature now free on iPhones challenges Android loyalty

Google’s Gemini Live feature, previously limited on iOS devices, is now fully accessible to iPhone users at no cost. This expansion marks a significant shift in the AI capabilities battle between mobile ecosystems, potentially drawing Android-curious users back to Apple. The upgraded Gemini Live brings camera access and screen-sharing functionality that enables natural, hands-free AI interactions, creating more intuitive ways to engage with artificial intelligence than what’s currently available natively on iOS.

The big picture: Google has eliminated a key AI advantage Android devices held over iPhones by bringing Gemini Live’s full functionality to iOS users for free, announced at Google I/O 2025.

• Previously, iPhone users could access a limited version of Gemini Live that lacked crucial camera and screen-sharing capabilities.
• This update puts advanced AI features in iPhone users’ hands without requiring them to switch ecosystems.

Why this matters: For ecosystem-locked users considering a platform switch, access to cutting-edge AI features now becomes less of a deciding factor.

• The author, who temporarily switched to Android specifically to explore AI differences, found Gemini Live compelling enough to stay with Android despite years of iPhone loyalty.
• With this barrier removed, the pull of a user’s established ecosystem regains primacy in smartphone purchasing decisions.

Key features: Gemini Live on iPhone now offers two critical capabilities that elevate its functionality beyond basic chatbot interactions.

• Camera access allows Gemini to “see” what users are looking at, enabling contextual assistance without requiring verbal descriptions of subjects.
• Screen-sharing functionality lets the AI view and interact with on-screen content, providing assistance for various tasks from work documents to gaming puzzles.

Real-world applications: The kitchen scenario demonstrates Gemini Live’s practical value beyond novelty use cases.

• The author describes using Gemini Live while cooking Birria Tacos, with the AI providing hands-free guidance by visually monitoring cooking progress.
• The feature accessed recipe information directly from creator videos through Google app connections, eliminating the need to touch devices with food-covered hands.

Between the lines: Google’s strategy appears to democratize advanced AI tools across platforms rather than using them as exclusive selling points for its hardware ecosystem.

• This approach contrasts with Apple’s tendency to keep its innovations within its ecosystem as competitive advantages.
• The move suggests Google prioritizes widespread AI adoption over hardware exclusivity, betting on service engagement rather than device sales.