During Google’s Pixel phone launch event on Tuesday, the spotlight was on the company’s new AI assistant, Gemini. Product Director David Citron demonstrated the assistant’s mobile capabilities but encountered a glitch when the live demo failed. Despite an initial freeze and error message while attempting to check his calendar for a concert by Sabrina Carpenter, the demo succeeded on the third attempt, successfully confirming the concert date and Citron’s availability.

This incident underscored a significant advantage for Google as it advances AI features in its smartphones. Unlike rivals, Google’s Gemini features are available for immediate testing. In contrast, Apple, which unveiled its new AI system, Apple Intelligence, in June, opted for prerecorded demonstrations and scripted live tests, with critical features like image generation and ChatGPT integration yet to be fully released.

Rick Osterloh, Google’s Devices Chief, emphasized the importance of showcasing real, shipping products. “What we were showing today is the stuff that is shipping in the next few days or weeks,” Osterloh stated. He highlighted Google’s transition from vision to tangible products, setting it apart from competitors whose AI advancements remain largely in development stages.

Google’s presentation introduced several novel capabilities, including “multimodal AI” which allows users to interact with the assistant through diverse inputs such as photos. A notable feature is the ability to capture screenshots and compile them into searchable notes. Gemini Live, the centerpiece of the demonstration, promises enhanced functionality, including natural conversation and advanced research support.

As AI integration into smartphones accelerates, with IDC projecting a surge in “Gen AI” capable devices, Google’s immediate availability of these features could pressure Apple. Google’s strategy also contrasts with Apple’s anticipated integration of ChatGPT, which Google has critiqued for being less private due to reliance on third-party AI providers.

Overall, Google’s live demo marked a significant step in the ongoing race to embed sophisticated AI into mobile technology, showcasing the practical application of AI advancements that other companies are still developing.