Google is officially entering its 'Hey Gemini' era

For years now, Android users have been saying “OK Google” or “Hey Google” to interact with the company’s voice assistant, and while that’s not going away just yet, they’re finally being joined by “Hey Gemini.”

Today marks the start of pre-orders for Intelligent Eyewear smart glasses from Google, Samsung, Gentle Monster, and Warby Parker. While you can access Gemini by tapping one the arms, you also have the option to get a conversation started by saying, “Hey Gemini.” Google explains:

Just say “Hey Gemini” or tap your frames to learn the story behind a street art mural you are passing by, ask for a tailored recommendation from a “New Arrivals” bookshelf, or look at an event poster to check your Calendar availability on the spot.

This addition has been a long time coming, and we’ve been anticipating the arrival of “Hey Gemini” support specifically with Android XR smart glasses for nearly two years now. As recently as last month, we were still uncovering new evidence for the wake word’s addition, so we’re very happy to now see it finally get some official confirmation.

As we said, “Hey Gemini” isn’t arriving to outright replace Google’s earlier wake words, and for the moment Android XR users can take their pick. But just as Gemini was first optional before outright replacing Assistant, we wouldn’t necessarily bet on that choice sticking around forever.

We’re also very curious about Google’s plans for the rest of its lineup. Right now, “Hey Gemini” isn’t supported on phones or smart home hardware, and it’s not clear how difficult it might be for Google to update all older devices with a new wake word.

Are you itching for a change to actually start summoning Gemini by name? Will Google have to pry “OK Google” from your cold, dead hands? Let us know in the survey above!