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How to Open Apps with Gemini Voice Commands

Gemini launches any app installed on your watch through simple voice commands. This eliminates scrolling through app lists on a small screen, especially useful during workouts or when your hands are occupied.


Basic App Launch Commands

Open apps by saying their name with a simple command prefix.

  • Standard Format: Say Open Spotify, Open Gmail, or Open Timer to launch apps directly.

  • Alternative Phrases: Launch Settings, Start Strava, and Open up Calculator all work to launch apps.

  • Common Names: Gemini recognizes common names, so Open email works for Gmail and Open music works for your default music app.

  • Watch vs Phone: Commands open apps on your watch by default. Say Open Spotify on my phone to launch on your phone instead.


Fitness and Health Apps

Launch workout and health apps hands-free when exercise makes touch difficult.

  • Workout Trackers: Say Open Strava, Open Nike Run Club, or Open Samsung Health to start fitness tracking.

  • Quick Start: Say Open Fitbit and start a run to launch and begin tracking in one command.

  • Health Checks: Say Open Google Fit or Open heart rate to access health monitoring apps.


Media and Entertainment

Access music, podcasts, and media apps without touching your watch.

  • Music Apps: Say Open Spotify, Open YouTube Music, or Open Pandora to access your music library.

  • Podcasts: Say Open Google Podcasts, Open Pocket Casts, or Open my podcast app.

  • Combined Actions: Say Open Spotify and play my workout playlist to launch and start playing immediately.


Productivity Apps

Access utilities and productivity tools quickly.

  • Calendar: Say Open Calendar or Open my schedule to view upcoming events.

  • Notes: Say Open Keep, Open notes, or Open Google Keep for note-taking.

  • Utilities: Say Open Calculator, Open Stopwatch, Open Weather, or Open Maps for quick access to tools.


Troubleshooting App Launch

What to do when voice commands don't open apps.

  • Check Installation: Ensure the app is installed on your watch, not just your phone. Some apps are phone-only.

  • Use Official Name: Try the exact app name as it appears in the Play Store. Nicknames don't always work.

  • Check Permissions: On your phone, open Gemini Extensions Connected apps to verify the app is enabled.

  • Restart Watch: If commands suddenly stop working, restart your watch to refresh the connection.


See Also: Gemini Voice Commands on WearOS|How to Interact with Gemini on Smartwatch|How to Request Simple Actions with Gemini