Google Gemini can now use your smartphone and send WhatsApp messages

Starting July 7, 2025, Google will integrate its AI assistant, Gemini, with key smartphone apps — WhatsApp, Messages, and Phone — enabling it to make calls, send texts, and interact with messaging services on behalf of the user. This was reported by Neowin, citing Google’s official email update. These new features aim to simplify smartphone use, but they also raise privacy concerns. Here's what Gemini can do, and how to manage its access.

What’s New in Gemini?

Google announced that as of July 7, 2025, Gemini will be integrated with three essential apps:

• WhatsApp: Gemini can send messages on the user’s behalf.
• Messages: The AI will be able to compose and send SMS texts.
• Phone: Gemini will be able to initiate calls.

These features are designed to automate routine tasks — like sending quick updates, making calls, or replying to chats. For example, users can say, “Call Mom” or “Send a WhatsApp message that I’ll be 10 minutes late,” and Gemini will carry out the task.

However, Google emphasizes that Gemini will not have access to message content in WhatsApp, including texts, media, or notifications. This restriction is aimed at protecting user privacy. Some of the features may still be available via Google Assistant or the Utilities service, even if Gemini’s access to WhatsApp is turned off.

How to Manage Gemini’s Access

Google has provided tools for users to control Gemini’s interactions with apps. To configure access:

1. Open the Gemini app on your smartphone.
2. Tap the profile icon in the upper-right corner.
3. Go to the “Apps”
4. Enable or disable access to WhatsApp, Messages, and Phone.

Even when access is turned off, Google retains interaction data with Gemini for 72 hours for safety and feedback purposes.

Limitations and Availability

Despite the new features, there are several important caveats:

• Privacy: Google claims Gemini does not read message content in WhatsApp, but the exact mechanisms for enforcing this remain unclear.
• Alternative Services: Some functions may be handled via Google Assistant or Utilities, which could confuse users who have disabled Gemini.
• Regional Restrictions: Google Gemini is not available in Russia, making these features inaccessible for users in that region. While Google has not specified the reasons, this is likely due to regional restrictions.

Why This Matters

Gemini’s integration with messaging and phone apps is part of Google’s broader strategy to build a universal AI assistant that can compete with Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa, and others. Automating calls and messages simplifies everyday tasks, especially for busy users or those who frequently use messaging apps. Gemini can:

• Send a meeting reminder via WhatsApp.
• Reply to SMS without opening the app.
• Make calls via voice command.

What’s Next?

Google is continuing to evolve Gemini, and this messaging and calling integration is just the first step. Future expansions may include access to other apps like Gmail and Google Calendar for even greater automation. The company is also working to improve data security to address concerns about information storage.

Those interested in trying Gemini should check availability in their region through Google Assistant settings or the official Google website. In supported countries, the update will roll out automatically starting July 7, 2025.

In Conclusion

On July 7, 2025, Google Gemini becomes more powerful, gaining the ability to make calls, send SMS, and write WhatsApp messages on the user’s behalf. Integrated with Phone, Messages, and WhatsApp, these new features promise to simplify daily routines but raise privacy concerns due to 72-hour data retention. Users have control over app access. This update positions Gemini as a strong competitor to other AI assistants — but its success will depend on Google’s transparency regarding privacy and how widely it expands Gemini’s regional availability.