Google Gemini can book an Uber or order food for you with new agentic AI features | The Verge
Summary
Google's Gemini AI now features task automation, allowing users to order rides and groceries with minimal input, enhancing user convenience and efficiency.
Why It Matters
This development signifies a shift towards more autonomous AI assistants, potentially transforming how users interact with technology. As AI capabilities expand, understanding their implications for privacy, user experience, and app developer relations becomes crucial.
Key Takeaways
- Gemini AI can now automate tasks like ordering rides and groceries.
- Users maintain control, with options to intervene during automation.
- This feature is part of a broader shift towards viewing Android as an 'intelligence system'.
- Limited to select apps initially, with broader implications for app developers.
- The rollout begins with specific devices in the US and Korea.
TechAINewsGemini is getting its first agentic capabilitiesGemini’s in the driver’s seat.Gemini’s in the driver’s seat.by Allison JohnsonFeb 25, 2026, 6:00 PM UTCLinkShareGiftGemini can now prep a rideshare or grocery order, though you’ll have to submit the order yourself. Image: GooglePart OfSamsung Unpacked 2026: live updates from the Galaxy S26 announcement eventsee all updates Allison Johnson is a senior reviewer with over a decade of experience writing about consumer tech. She has a special interest in mobile photography and telecom. Previously, she worked at DPReview.Google’s Gemini AI is getting one step closer to being more like an actual assistant. Starting with some Pixel 10 phones and the Samsung Galaxy S26 series, Gemini will be able to hail an Uber or put together a DoorDash order on its own.It’s called task automation, and it starts with a prompt to Gemini — something like “Get me an Uber to the Palace of Fine Arts.” Gemini then launches the app in a virtual window on your device and goes through the process step-by-step. You can watch it all happen, with options to stop the automation or take control if necessary, or just let it run in the background while Gemini does its thing. The assistant will notify you if it needs your attention to choose between two options, or if something you asked it to look for is out of stock. Once your ride or grocery cart is all set, Gemini will alert you to take a look and submit the final order yourself.According to Android ec...
