Samsung Galaxy S25: Gemini Integration & New Side Button Feature

Samsung Enhances Galaxy S25 with Streamlined Google Gemini Access

Significant changes are coming to the Samsung side button functionality. During Samsung Unpacked 2025, held on Wednesday, the company revealed a notable adjustment planned for the Galaxy S25 series.

This modification provides more convenient access to Google Gemini, reflecting Samsung’s increasing concentration on mobile AI capabilities.

Shift Away from Bixby

This announcement follows several years of unsuccessful efforts to establish Samsung’s own Bixby smart assistant as a dominant force in the market.

Furthermore, it coincides with reports that Gemini is poised to supersede Google Home on Android devices, although Google Home will persist within smart home ecosystems like the Nest thermostat.

The Rise of Generative AI

Generative AI, and Gemini in particular, were central themes at Wednesday’s Unpacked event.

Mobile technology companies are increasingly relying on platforms such as this – and Apple Intelligence/ChatGPT – to provide compelling reasons for device upgrades, moving beyond traditional hardware improvements.

However, the capabilities of the S25 are still fundamentally powered by the neural cores within the new Snapdragon 8 Elite chip.

Expanded Functionality and Integration

Similar to Apple’s recent enhancements to Siri, Gemini now offers greater interoperability across various applications.

This includes seamless integration with Google apps like Maps, YouTube, and Messages, as well as popular third-party services like Spotify.

Gemini also extends its reach to essential Samsung applications, such as Reminder, Calendar, Notes, and Clock.

Bixby's Continued Role

Echoing Google’s strategic shift with Google Home, Samsung has not entirely discontinued Bixby.

At this month’s CES event, the company demonstrated how Bixby will continue to function within its range of appliances and other smart home products.