Samsung Starts Rolling Out Gemini Support for Galaxy Buds 3 with Android 16 Requirement

Samsung has started rolling out Gemini support for Galaxy Buds 3, but only for those running Android 16. Gemini was a feature introduced by Google's Pixel Buds Pro 2, allowing for seamless integration with Google Assistant. The update is currently available on Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro, but requires Samsung's One UI 8 update, which is currently in beta on the Galaxy S25 series.

Samsung has announced a significant expansion of its One UI 8 beta program, set to include more Galaxy devices and enhance features like privacy, security, and AI capabilities. The company has also integrated Google's Gemini feature into its Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro, making it accessible to users running One UI 8 on select devices.

The One UI 8 beta, initially available on the Galaxy S25 series, will now be rolled out to the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, and more devices starting August 11. The expansion will continue through September, with additional devices expected to be included [1].

One UI 8 introduces several new features, including Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP), which secures on-device AI operations by setting up encrypted, app-specific storage zones. This update also enhances Knox Matrix to better protect connected devices by auto-signing out of the user’s Samsung Account if a device is flagged as high-risk [1].

Additionally, the update optimizes AI tools for foldable devices, offering features like side-by-side editing, Photo Assist, and Generative Edit on the Galaxy Z series. The One UI 8 Watch brings advanced health tracking tools like Antioxidant Index, bedtime guidance, and running coach to Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic [1].

Samsung has also integrated Google's Gemini feature into the Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro, allowing users to interact with Google Assistant using voice commands. The feature is currently available on One UI 8-equipped devices, with the Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro requiring a firmware update to access Gemini [2].

The stable rollout of One UI 8 is expected to be announced later this year, with the beta program scheduled to expand through September. Samsung has not yet committed to a specific timeline for the stable release, but users can expect to see more devices included in the beta program over the coming months [1].

References:

[1] https://www.business-standard.com/technology/tech-news/samsung-expands-one-ui-8-beta-stable-release-next-month-check-devices-125080600554_1.html

[2] https://www.androidpolice.com/samsungs-galaxy-buds-3-get-google-gemini-but-only-on-some-phones/