Google has begun rolling out its Gemini AI tool to the Chrome browser on iPhones and iPads in the US, allowing users to access AI features directly within the app. This update eliminates the need to switch to the Google app for AI assistance. The integration follows a similar rollout to desktop users in September.
Google's addition of Gemini to Chrome on iOS devices marks a significant step in making AI more accessible on Apple's platforms. Previously, iPhone and iPad users had to use the Google app or website to interact with Gemini, but now the AI is embedded in Chrome, the most widely used browser in the US with a 54% market share as of November, according to StatCounter.
The rollout started a few months after Google introduced Gemini in Chrome for Windows and Mac desktop users in September. Android users have long had access to Gemini in their default Chrome browser. Gemini, Google's family of AI products, competes with tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Anthropic's Claude in areas such as chatbots and content creation.
Jason Howell, host of the Android Faithful Podcast and former CNET staffer, described the update as filling "a noticeable gap" for millions of iPhone and iPad users. "Giving Gemini awareness of what's happening inside the Chrome browser has real utility, and placing that spark icon front and center will nudge a lot of people to try it who might not have otherwise," Howell said. "It's a smart distribution play. Put your AI in an app that millions already have installed, and you're giving them an enticing reason to test it."
Howell also noted that this positions Google to catch up with Microsoft, which integrates Copilot into its Edge browser on iOS. However, Chrome's larger footprint on iOS could boost Gemini's adoption among third-party AI assistants.
The feature is gradually rolling out across the US and requires Chrome version 143, a signed-in account, English language settings, and non-Incognito mode. Users will see the Google Lens icon replaced by a sparkle icon for Gemini. Tapping it offers options like Search screen and Ask Gemini, with shortcuts to summarize pages or create FAQs.
For example, on a page about 2025 news events, users could ask for monthly top events or political news lists. For recipes, Gemini might suggest ingredient substitutes. It also simplifies online shopping by enabling biometric checkouts instead of CVC codes. Users are advised to double-check AI responses, as tools can sometimes hallucinate.
