You're not alone: This email from Google's Gemini team was concerning (Updated: Google statement)
www.androidauthority.com
The email states that starting July 7, Gemini will "help" with Phone, Messages, and WhatsApp, even if Gemini Apps Activity is turned off.

Google’s Gemini team is apparently sending out emails about an upcoming change to how Gemini interacts with apps on Android devices. The email informs users that, come July 7, 2025, Gemini will be able to “help you use Phone, Messages, WhatsApp, and Utilities on your phone, whether your Gemini Apps Activity is on or off.” Naturally, this has raised some privacy concerns among those who’ve received the email and those using the AI assistant on their Android devices.

  • @[email protected]English
    3•11 days ago

    Yeah, but the question was as to whether Gemini is listed as an app. The answer is no, Google have snuck it in whether you like it or not.

    • r00ty
      1•10 days ago

      It’s in the app list for me. I set it to disabled.

      Phone is Samsung s24 ultra.