Google’s announcement regarding its powerful large language model (LLM), Gemini, has created a wave in the AI space. Gemini Nano, the mobile version of this LLM, won’t be available on the Pixel 8 due to hardware restrictions, as confirmed during a recent episode of The Android Show.
Gemini Integration Plans
Google intends to integrate Gemini across its products, with initial inclusion in the most expensive Google One plan (limited to the account manager in family plans). This signifies Google’s ambitious plans for AI integration.
Hardware Limitations Hinder Pixel 8
While the Pixel 8 Pro boasts Gemini Nano capabilities, the standard Pixel 8 lacks the necessary hardware, likely due to its 8GB RAM compared to the Pro’s 12GB. This highlights RAM as a key factor for running Gemini Nano.
Future Compatibility on the Horizon
The news isn’t all bad for Pixel 8 users. Google is working on bringing Nano to more high-end devices soon. Phones powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 and 9300 chipsets (like iQOO Neo 9 Pro, Oppo Reno 12, Poco X6 Pro 5G, and Tecno Phantom V2 Fold) might receive compatibility in the future due to their chipset updates.
Limited Functionality on Pixel 8 Pro
The initial rollout of Gemini Nano on the Pixel 8 Pro wasn’t groundbreaking. Features like summarizing recorded conversations and offering smart replies in Gboard haven’t proven particularly useful yet.
Hope for Pixel 9
There’s optimism that the Pixel 9 will come with sufficient RAM across all models, potentially making Gemini Nano a standard feature.
