Google's Gemini Task Automation Brings True AI Assistance to Pixel 10 Pro and Galaxy S26 Ultra

After years of AI assistants that mostly just answer questions and set timers, Google's Gemini task automation finally delivers what we've been promised: an AI that can actually use your phone for you.

Currently available on the Pixel 10 Pro and Galaxy S26 Ultra, this beta feature represents the first time a consumer AI assistant can genuinely take control of apps and complete complex tasks. Right now, it's limited to food delivery services like DoorDash and rideshare apps like Uber, but the implications are enormous.

The Reality: Slow but Genuinely Impressive

Let's be honest about what you're getting: Gemini task automation is painfully slow. The Verge's testing showed it took nine minutes just to order dinner — something any human could accomplish in under two minutes. If you need an Uber "right this second," you're still faster than the AI.

But here's why that misses the point entirely. This isn't designed to replace your lightning-fast thumb scrolling when you're in a hurry. Instead, Gemini works in the background while you do other things, or even when you're not looking at your phone at all. Imagine telling your Pixel 10 Pro to order your usual lunch while you're in a meeting, then having it ready for pickup when you're done.

What Makes This Different

Unlike previous AI demos that felt scripted and controlled, Gemini task automation works in real consumer apps with all their messy, unpredictable interfaces. When testing dinner orders, the AI navigated menu options, selected combo meals, and even figured out modifications on the fly — displaying helpful status updates like "Selecting a second portion of Chicken Teriyaki for the combo."

The Galaxy S26 Ultra and Pixel 10 Pro both handle the processing seamlessly, though the experience is identical across devices since it's powered by Google's cloud-based Gemini models.

The Bigger Picture

This beta release feels like the iPhone moment for AI assistants. Yes, it's limited to a handful of apps. Yes, it's slower than doing it yourself. But it's the first time we're seeing genuine AI task completion on consumer devices rather than in carefully controlled keynote demonstrations.

The current app selection includes major food delivery platforms and rideshare services, with Google likely expanding compatibility based on user feedback and developer partnerships. While pricing for Gemini task automation hasn't been announced, it's expected to be part of Google's premium AI subscription tiers.

Should You Care?

If you own a Pixel 10 Pro or Galaxy S26 Ultra, requesting beta access is worth it purely for the novelty. This isn't solving major problems yet, but it's genuinely impressive technology that hints at a future where your phone becomes a true digital assistant rather than just a smart search engine.

The real question isn't whether Gemini task automation is ready to replace human phone usage — it's not. The question is whether you want to experience the first glimpse of what smartphone AI will become. For tech enthusiasts and early adopters, that answer is probably yes.

Sources

• The Verge: Gemini task automation is slow, clunky, and super impressive