The 30 second story
Google’s Gemini AI assistant can now control apps directly on Android phones, handling tasks like ordering food or booking rides without human intervention. The feature works on the Pixel 10 Pro and Galaxy S26 Ultra but remains limited to a handful of food delivery and rideshare services during beta testing. Google has not announced UK pricing or availability for this specific feature.
Why it matters
This marks the first time a mainstream AI assistant can operate apps independently rather than just responding to questions or voice commands. For UK business owners, this technology preview points toward AI assistants that could handle routine business tasks like expense submissions, calendar management, or supplier ordering without constant supervision. The current consumer focus on food delivery masks the broader implications for business process automation, where AI could soon navigate complex enterprise software, complete multi-step workflows, and execute routine administrative tasks that currently require human attention.
Be transparent about it
This technology operates apps on your device, potentially accessing personal and business data during task execution. When this capability reaches business applications, inform colleagues and clients if AI assistants will access shared systems or process their information. Recording app interactions or automating tasks involving customer data without proper consent could breach UK data protection rules.
What this means for your business
- Business process automation becomes possible without complex integrations, as AI assistants could navigate existing software interfaces directly
- The cost barrier for automating routine administrative tasks drops significantly when AI can use standard business applications without custom programming
- Staff time previously spent on repetitive software interactions becomes available for higher-value work as AI handles routine clicking and data entry
- Businesses face new security considerations as AI assistants gain deeper access to corporate systems and sensitive information