Google will most certainly introduce Gemini Nano support on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a in a future Feature Drop, so turning this feature on the Pixel 8 does not start the process of downloading the Gemini Nano module.
Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a will get the AICore update
Google’s Pixel 8 Pro is the only Pixel that can use Gemini Nano for Pixel AI capabilities, but Google listened to the outcry and made Gemini Nano available for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a as well. We first came across the on-device generative AI toggle within the Android AICore app just the day before, and it now appears that the Android AICore app has been updated on the Pixel 8 at the very least.
It is believed and seen by Mishaal Rahman that Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a will feature On-Device Generative AI (GenAI) via Gemini Nano, and the company is said to have released an update to a system component that enables the feature to be toggled on and off. While exploring the latest AICore APK for the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a, it is reported that two toggles are likely to be available in the developer options section. The first option, Enable AICore Persistent, will allocate a part of the device’s memory for its continuous use.
What is Gemini Nano?
Google’s Gemini Nano is an AI model that runs on-device and performs AI tasks. Despite being the smallest model in the Gemini family, it is crucial for all the on-device, internet-free AI it offers a smartphone.
How to get the AICore update on your Google Pixel mobile?
- When it becomes available, users will be required to turn on Developer Options and then switch on this new “Enabled on-device GenAI features” option that is located at Settings => System => Developer options => AICore Settings
- This should presumably initiate the process of downloading the large Gemini Nano model.
- Charge your phone overnight while connected to Wi-Fi. However, there may be other app updates that might be required to make real functionality work.
- Gemini Nano on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a may have to be activated through the developer options menu.
- Although Google may unveil these features through a Pixel Feature Drop, it is unknown whether these toggles will be relocated within the Settings menu.
- Users would have to go to the Settings app on these handsets, select Developer Options, then AICore Settings and toggle on Enable on-device GenAI Features and Enable AICore Persistent toggles.