The Galaxy S26 Ultra is among the first devices to introduce a significant new capability: task automation. Weeks prior, Google and Samsung unveiled this substantial Gemini development, designed to empower their latest devices. Initially focusing on food delivery and rideshare applications, Gemini is engineered to interact with specific apps on a user's behalf within a virtual window. This allows it to manage tasks such as ordering dinner or arranging airport transportation, all based on straightforward prompts. This marks a notable step towards fulfilling the long-held promises of AI assistant functionalities. While this feature was not active during the S26 Ultra's initial testing phase, it has recently become available in beta through a software update. Witnessing one's phone operate itself in this manner is undeniably a distinctive experience.
My inaugural test involved a simple command: "order an Uber to the airport." Gemini promptly requested clarification regarding the specific airport, a sensible inquiry. Subsequently, it independently navigated several steps, including adding the destination and opting to bypass the airline specification, which is inconsequential at my local single-terminal airport. As designed, the system paused before the final confirmation step, presenting the details for my review prior to dispatching the car request.
A more ambiguous and slightly complex request to "order a coffee and a croissant" necessitated a bit more user guidance and a considerable amount of time for Gemini to scroll through Starbucks' extensive hot drink menu. Nevertheless, it successfully located the flat white. A critical decision then arose: should the chocolate croissant be warmed, or served directly from the pastry case? Without explicit instruction, Gemini autonomously and correctly specified that the pastry should be warmed. This demonstrates impressive sophistication for an assistant that, just a year ago, would engage in debates over calendar flight details.
Extensive further testing of this automation feature is planned, and I intend to challenge it with various scenarios over the coming days. Nonetheless, observing this functionality operational in a real-world setting, performing as intended thus far, is genuinely remarkable.
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