Google Gemini activates automatically on Android devices

Android and Pixel users are reporting that Google's Gemini AI assistant is activating itself during conversations without being explicitly invoked. Users have noted that the assistant appears to be processing environmental dialogue and providing contextually relevant responses, rather than just reacting to specific keywords.

Reports suggest that Google may have silently enabled hands-free access for Gemini within Google Maps and Waze driving modes through a recent update. Many users claim that this setting, which was previously opted-out, has been switched to an opt-out configuration without prior notification. This change has raised concerns regarding transparency and user privacy.

To manage this, users can navigate to Google Maps settings under Navigation > Gemini to disable the ‘Talk to Gemini hands-free’ option or manage Voice Match settings.