Gemini app for iPhone gets homescreen redesign, auto-opens keyboard

Abner Li | Feb 24 2025 - 9:46 am PT

Following Android in January, the Gemini app on iPhone has received a homescreen redesign that will auto-open the keyboard on launch.

The “Ask Gemini” field now extends the entire width of the screen, while Google has removed the microphone and camera icon pill. At the right, it’s just buttons for voice input and Gemini Live.

Meanwhile, the ‘plus’ menu is how you access the Camera, as well as Gallery and Files. Another tweak removes the separator above the field for an even more minimalist look.

Old vs. new

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The new text box changes into a rounded rectangle once you’ve entered a prompt. In terms of functional changes, the keyboard now automatically opens when you launch Gemini to let you immediately start typing.

This homescreen redesign for iPhone users is rolling out with version 1.2025.0670001 of the Gemini app. If you’re not seeing these changes after updating, close the app from multitasking and relaunch. The release notes also include:

Reference past chats for more tailored help with Gemini Advanced
Improved sources and related content display
More detailed responses about places on Google Maps
UI improvements and bug fixes

This joins other recent Gemini updates for the iPhone app like Experimental models:

2.0 Flash: For everyday tasks, plus more features
2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental: Best for multi-step reasoning
2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental with apps: Reasoning across YouTube, Maps & Search
2.0 Pro Experimental: Best for complex tasks [Advanced subscription required]
1.5 Pro with Deep Research: Get in-depth answers