Bixby is Samsung and has been installed on all new flagships by default since the Galaxy S8 was released in 2017. Since then, however, it has lost compatibility with more and more Google apps. However, the latest update to Bixby 2.0 allows control over Youtube, Google Maps , and Gmail.
Essentially, Bixby is Samsung's answer to software assistants like Google Assistant, and it can run on phones running the OEM's stock UIs (Experience or One UI). It's also available on Samsung's newest smart refrigerators and TVs. On the other hand, it could be considered limiting compared to other mobile virtual assistants, as Bixby is fully compatible with in-house apps found in the aforementioned UIs. However, this could cause a stir for users who want hands-free control over apps, such as those made by Google. In fact, this has been the case ever since Bixby was upgraded to version 2.0 and integrated into One UI.
Users with Galaxy S9-line devices running the updated OS, as well as those with the Galaxy Note 9, Note 8, S8, or S8+ running the latest official betas for most devices, may have lost control of several useful apps via Bixby. However, it appears that compatibility with at least some of the Google apps has been restored.
Also, some have confirmed that the assistant can now open YouTube, Google Maps, and Gmail on phones running the latest version of Bixby 2.0. As a result, Samsung flagship owners are now able to search for videos or instructions using those apps, or compose messages in Gmail.
In fact, in the future, Bixby 2.0 is expected to be able to open Google Play. This is certainly very good news especially for users who may be annoyed with the limited use of the assistant and the poor translation it gives on other platforms or services.
