Gemini’s @ syntax lets you select a connected app or service—such as Google Drive or Google Tasks—before describing what you want done. Use it when you want Gemini to retrieve or act on information through a particular connected service. For general questions, brainstorming, and drafting that do not need a connected service, a normal prompt is enough.
How Gemini’s @ syntax works
Typing @ in Gemini’s prompt box opens an app selector. Choose an available Connected App, then tell Gemini the task. The app selection identifies the service you want involved; it does not replace the instruction itself. Google’s Connected Apps help page explains the workflow and the services Gemini can connect to.
For example, selecting Google Drive and asking Gemini to find and summarize a project plan is more specific than asking it to summarize a plan without saying where to look. When working with Workspace content, Google advises including keywords from the document or email rather than pasting its URL.
How to use @ in a prompt
- Open Gemini and type
@in the prompt box. - Choose the app or service you want from the selector. Only apps available in your current account and Gemini context will appear.
- Describe the task clearly. Include identifying details such as a document’s subject, a project name, or the date and purpose of a reminder.
- If Gemini prompts you to connect the app or grant permission, follow the steps shown. If the app is unavailable, check Connected Apps settings and the service’s eligibility and supported-action details.
For a first request in a new conversation that needs Workspace information, explicitly ask Gemini to retrieve or use that information. Google says you do not need to specify the app again in follow-up questions in the same chat. See Google’s Workspace guidance for Gemini for connection and usage details.
#1 Best Overall
- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
When to use @ instead of a normal prompt
| Prompt approach | Best suited to | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Normal prompt | General questions, brainstorming, drafting, or requests that do not require information or actions from a connected service. | “Give me three ways to structure a project update.” |
@ app selection |
Tasks where you want Gemini to use a particular connected service as a source or destination, subject to that app’s supported actions. | “@Google Drive Find the latest project plan with ‘Q4 launch’ in the title and summarize its decisions.” |
Other examples of the selector include @Google Tasks Remind me Friday at 10 a.m. to send the revised draft. and @Canva Create a simple social post layout for this event. These illustrate documented use cases, not a guarantee that every user can access those apps or that every requested action is supported. Google describes app selection and examples in its Gemini Apps help and Connected Apps information.
Why an app or action may be unavailable
There is no universal Connected Apps list. Google says availability varies by account type, Google Workspace edition, location, language, device, and which Gemini app you use. Work or school accounts may also need an eligible Workspace edition and administrator enablement. Workspace connections can depend on required account settings, including Keep Activity. Check the Connected Apps settings and availability guidance for your account rather than assuming an app shown elsewhere will appear for you.
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
Availability is only one check: a selectable app may not support the specific action you want. Google’s Workspace documentation lists actions Gemini cannot perform, while its guidance for creative apps describes availability limits for Canva and Wix. Review the relevant service’s supported and unsupported actions before relying on a workflow. See Workspace app limitations and Gemini’s Canva and Wix guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Check Gemini’s answer before relying on it
Gemini can make mistakes or return stale information. When it summarizes your files or messages, inspect any sources it lists and, for important details, verify them in the underlying service. Google’s Gemini Apps help describes these limitations.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- Google Pixel 7 is powered by Google Tensor G2; it’s faster, more efficient, and more secure, with the best photo and video quality yet on Pixel[1].Other camera description:Front,Rear.Bluetooth Version 5.2 with dual antennas for enhanced quality and connection.
- Unlocked Android 5G phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel’s Adaptive Battery can last over 24 hours; when Extreme Battery Saver is turned on, it can last up to 72 hours[3]
- The 6.3-inch Pixel 7 display is super sharp, with rich, vivid colors; it’s fast and responsive for smoother gaming, scrolling, and moving between apps[4]
- Google Pixel 7 has wide and ultrawide lenses with up to 8x Super Res Zoom[5]; and Cinematic Blur brings more drama to your videos
Rank #4
- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
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