Google to Replace Gemini Gems With Skills, Add Pixel Buds Voice Controls and Watch Emoji

The Gemini app is telling users that Gems will become skills starting Nov. 17, 2026, TechCrunch AI reported. Google said it will move the Gems to the new format so users will not have to take any action for the transition. Gems will remain usable until that date.

Gems launched in 2024 as custom assistants that users could teach to perform specific tasks without repeating instructions. Google offered pre-made Gems including a learning coach, brainstorming assistant, career guide, coding partner and editor. Users could also create Gems for needs such as a running coach, nutritionist or vacation planner, and share them with others. Google had hoped the shareable assistants would help make its Gemini app more popular.

After the migration, former Gems will be available as skills across different AI tasks, but using them will require entering a forward slash in a task thread to select the skill, TechCrunch AI reported. The publication said that interface is less consumer-friendly than simply typing text into an all-in-one chatbot such as Meta's Muse. TechCrunch AI also reported the change comes as all-in-one AI agents such as Meta's Muse and Instinct take off. The Gems wind-down was first reported over the weekend by 9to5Google, according to TechCrunch AI.

Separately, the latest version of the Pixel Buds app enables voice control for a range of earbud settings through Gemini, Android Authority reported, citing 9to5Google. Version 1.0.981607934 of the Pixel Buds app is available on the Play Store. The controls let users adjust EQ presets, ANC mode, conversation detection and touch controls without touching their phone. The new voice control features require the Gemini app.

Android Authority also reported earlier this week that Google is working to add a touch control gesture to mute and unmute the earbuds' microphones during phone calls.

Google is also bringing its newer 3D emoji design to older Pixel Watches with the September update, Android Authority reported, citing 9to5Google. The refreshed emoji are arriving on the Pixel Watch 2, Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Watch 4. The Pixel Watch 5 already shipped with the newer look, and Pixel phone users have received the same design through Android 17.

According to Android Authority, the new emoji add depth, shading and detail, making reactions look livelier on the small watch display. 9to5Google's before-and-after comparison showed the older emoji looking flatter than the updated versions. The redesigned emoji are rolling out alongside other improvements, including expanded gesture support.

Editor's Summary Google is replacing Gemini Gems with skills on Nov. 17, 2026, automatically migrating users' custom assistants while changing how they are accessed. The company is also extending Gemini voice controls to Pixel Buds settings and bringing redesigned 3D emoji to Pixel Watch 2, 3 and 4. The updates show Google consolidating AI features under Gemini while continuing to refresh its Pixel device software.