Gemini for Android using Bubbles to let you multitask & continue chats

At a glance:

• Gemini overlay on Android now uses Bubbles API to maintain conversation continuity while multitasking
• Users can minimize chats to floating bubble with spark logo, then tap to resume full overlay experience
• Feature currently limited to Android 17 QPR1 Beta with no wider rollout confirmed

New Bubbles integration for Gemini on Android

Google has enhanced the Gemini overlay experience on Android by integrating the Bubbles API, allowing users to maintain ongoing conversations while switching between apps. After starting a conversation from the Gemini overlay, users can tap elsewhere on the screen to minimize the chat into a floating bubble that displays only the distinctive spark logo. This addresses a previous limitation where closing the overlay would completely end the conversation, forcing users to reopen the full application to continue chatting.

The implementation follows a familiar pattern for Android users, with Google providing an introductory prompt explaining that "Gemini is still available while you multitask. Tap to expand. Drag to move or dismiss." This guidance helps users understand the new interaction model, which mirrors the functionality of Gemini Live's floating waveform circle but applies it to the standard chat experience. The bubble can be dragged to different screen positions or dismissed entirely based on user preference.

Android 17 compatibility and rollout status

With the launch of Android 17, Google has extended the Bubbles functionality to include the main Gemini application itself, enabling similar continuous access patterns across both overlay and full app experiences. However, the feature appears to be in early testing phases, with reports indicating it's currently only available through the Android 17 QPR1 Beta release. Our testing confirmed the feature is not yet present on standard Android builds, suggesting Google is taking a cautious approach to deployment.

This gradual rollout aligns with Google's typical strategy for major interface changes, allowing them to gather feedback and address potential issues before wider availability. The Bubbles API has been part of Android since Android 10, but Google's adoption for Gemini represents one of the more prominent uses of the feature for AI assistant interactions.

Additional Gemini platform updates

Beyond the Bubbles integration, Google continues expanding Gemini's capabilities across platforms. Recent updates include a fix for call functionality issues affecting both Android and Android Auto, a refreshed icon and hotkey screenshot shortcut for the macOS version, and new business-focused features including Google Business Profile integration and dedicated Business notebooks within the app.

These incremental improvements suggest Google is actively refining the Gemini experience across different operating systems and use cases, from casual mobile interactions to professional productivity workflows. The business integration features particularly indicate Google's ambition to position Gemini as a workplace tool rather than just a consumer AI assistant.