Gemini was broken on the Pixel Watch 5, but Google's got a fix

Update: September 16, 2026 (3:07 PM ET): In response to another report highlighting a problem with Gemini, a Google representative confirmed that the company has fixed the issue:

Our Google teams have fixed the issue, and the update has officially rolled out. You can now use your Pixel Watch to manage your home devices without any trouble. We appreciate your patience while we got this sorted out.

Original article: September 16, 2026 (2:47 PM ET): There are plenty of reasons to own a Pixel Watch 5, from more advanced GPS route tracking to real-time workout information. For some, it’s the benefit of having access to Gemini right on your wrist. Unfortunately for these users, a bug recently rendered Gemini useless.

If you own a Pixel Watch 5, you may run into an issue with using Gemini. According to multiple reports on Reddit, the chatbot is unable to answer questions. Reportedly, the AI can’t even handle simple tasks anymore, like starting a timer.

One owner claims that whenever they ask Gemini something, it responds with “I’m just a speech model, I can’t do that.” Another user claims they’re experiencing a similar issue, but Gemini uses the word “text” instead of “speech.” A third owner reports that Gemini responds with “I’m having a hard time fulfilling your request.”

It appears that the issue is mostly affecting the Pixel Watch 5. However, there’s one report from a Pixel Watch 4 owner who says the problem has now gone away on its own.

It’s unclear what exactly is causing the error. Android Authority has reached out to Google for comment. This article will be updated once new information becomes available.