Gemini gets a Spotlight-like shortcut for quick access on a Mac. In addition to querying, you can use it to share app windows and ask related questions.
Google is making it easier for Mac users to access Gemini. The company rolled out a dedicated macOS app for Gemini on Wednesday, soon after introducing a desktop Google search app for Windows.
Anyone running macOS Sequoia 15 or newer on an Apple Silicon Mac (M-series processor) can download the Gemini app from Google’s website.
Easy access seems to have been a key focus for Google. With the Mac app, Gemini can be summoned using two keyboard shortcuts, depending on what window size you’d prefer. With Option (⌥) + Space, you get a small Spotlight-like prompt bar, or with Option + Shift + Space, you get the full Gemini window.
Another way to access the Gemini app after launching it is to click the spark icon in the Mac menu bar. Note that if you use Gemini in Chrome, you may see two Gemini sparks on the menu bar, and that can be confusing.
That aside, the shortcuts help you reach Gemini without switching tabs or windows. Google says this “brings AI assistance right where your work happens.” Once the app launches, you can use it for your querying or media generation as usual. You can also check out our tips to get the most out of the chatbot.
Another feature is window sharing. Click the plus (+) button in the prompt box, then select Share Windowto ask Gemini questions about what it sees in the app window. The feature, however, requires access to your Mac screen and audio in Settings. I was a bit concerned about giving the AI access to my PC, so I avoided using the feature right away.
Note that installing the Gemini app automatically adds it to your Login Items & Extensions list. This means the app launches automatically when you start your Mac. You can remove the app from login items by going to Settings > General > Login Items & Extensions. On this page, select the Gemini app and click the minus (-) button.
This is just the beginning of AI assistance on desktops, Google says. “We’re building the foundation for a truly personal, proactive and powerful desktop assistant, with more news to share in the coming months,” the company added.
