How to set up and use Gemini on your Fairphone

  • Region:Europe
  • Updated 

At Fairphone, we prioritize your control. Gemini is a Google service, but you can switch off Gemini or manage your data and privacy settings at any time directly on your device.

ⓘ These steps require Android 13 or later. Find out How to check and update your software version.

What you need before you begin

To use Gemini on your phone, make sure you have:

  • An active internet connection.
  • An active Google account signed into your device.

How to activate Gemini

You can start using Gemini in three easy ways:

Press and hold the power button

Pressing and holding the power button triggers your digital assistant by default. If you want to change this shortcut, see how to change power button settings.

Talk to Gemini hands-free

If Voice Match is enabled, you can say "Hey Google" to access Gemini whenever your screen is active. To turn on Voice Match:

  1. Open the Gemini app and tap your profile picture in the top-right corner.
  2. Tap Settings > Talk to Gemini hands-free.
  3. Tap Hey Google and follow the setup instructions.

Open the Gemini app

Swipe up from your Home screen to view All Apps, then tap Gemini.

How to use the Gemini app

Once you open the Gemini app, you can interact with it in two ways:

  • Speak your request: Tap the microphone icon and speak your question clearly.
  • Type your request: Tap the text field, type your question, and tap Send.

To get the best experience, keep your phone and the Gemini app updated to the latest version.

What you can do with Gemini

To explore full features, lock screen actions, and setup instructions for external audio accessories, view the official guides from Google Support.

How to disable Gemini or switch assistants

If you prefer not to use Gemini, you can remove the digital assistant entirely.

  1. Open Settings > Apps > Default apps > Digital assistant app.
  2. Tap Default digital assistant app and select None.

Why "Hey Google" does not wake your Fairphone when the screen is off

The Fairphone (Gen. 6) uses an Analog Microphone (AMIC) hardware design. DMIC (Digital Microphone) hardware is required to capture voice commands while a device stays in a low-power sleep state.

Because of this hardware design, saying "Hey Google" will not wake the phone while the screen is off or dark. You must manually wake the Fairphone by pressing the power button or tapping the screen before using voice commands.

Still need help?

First try our self-service portal and then reach out to our customer support team. You can also open a support request directly through the My Fairphone app pre-installed on your device.