The new Google Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 are likely to get on-device generative AI (GenAI) capabilities via Gemini Nano technology, the media has reported. The tech giant has initiated an update to a system component, enabling users to manually activate this functionality. Currently, Gemini Nano is supported on select smartphones, including Google’s flagship Pixel 8 Pro and the recently unveiled Samsung Galaxy S24 series.
Now, last year’s Pixel 8 and newly-launched Pixel 8a will feature support for Gemini Nano, thus, allowing for on-device GenAI capabilities.
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The catch here is that Google will require users to manually activate Nano support on the Pixel 8 and 8a by toggling a setting in developer options, whereas Pixel 8 Pro users will have these features automatically enabled, says a report by Android Authority.
Consequently, the majority of Pixel 8/8a users may not use Gemini Nano features because they are unlikely to be aware that such an option exists. However, a recent APK teardown of Google’s AICore app provides insights into a potential toggle for this feature, hinting at a likely launch. Interestingly, this could also imply enhanced control over the feature for Pixel 8 Pro users.
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During an analysis of the most recent AICore APK for the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a, Android Authority identified two toggles likely to be included in the developer options menu. The first toggle, labelled “Enable AICore Persistent” is designed to allocate a portion of the device’s memory to ensure persistent operation.
On the other hand, the Enable on-device GenAI Features toggle provides users with the ability to activate or deactivate GenAI functionalities on their smartphone. The toggle’s description specifies that it manages AI capabilities powered by AICore and leveraging Google’s Gemini AI model.
To recall, ahead of the annual Google I/O event next week, Google officially unveiled its latest Pixel smartphone, the Pixel 8a, recently. The phone boasts a 6.1-inch FHD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of up to 2,000 nits, making it 40 per cent brighter than last year’s Pixel 7a (read our full review of the Pixel 7a here).
The Google Pixel 8a is priced at Rs 52,999 (MRP) for the 128GB variant, while the 256GB version costs Rs 59,999 (MRP). The handset is currently available for pre-order in India on e-commerce site Flipkart, with sales starting at 6:30 AM IST on May 14, 2024.
