Elon Musk’s xAI Launches Grok’s Android App—But Key Features Are Missing

The much-awaited Grok AI chatbot is now on Android, but users may be disappointed by missing features like voice mode and advanced reasoning.

Grok AI Arrives on Android, but It’s Not Fully Loaded Yet

Elon Musk’s AI startup, xAI, has officially rolled out its Grok AI chatbot as a standalone app for Android users. This move aims to boost adoption and compete with major AI players like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, Anthropic’s Claude, and Meta’s AI assistant.

However, while the app is available in beta, it currently lacks several key features that users were hoping for.

What’s Missing in the Grok Android App?

Despite excitement around the launch, the Android version of Grok is missing some major capabilities that are available elsewhere:

1. No Voice Mode Yet

One of the most anticipated features, voice interaction, is not available on the Android app at this stage. This is surprising, given that voice-based AI assistants are becoming a major trend in the AI space.

2. No Advanced Reasoning (Think & DeepSearch)

Grok's Think and DeepSearch features, which enhance reasoning and deep analysis, are currently unavailable on Android. These tools help Grok provide more insightful and in-depth responses, making their absence a drawback for users looking for advanced AI capabilities.

3. No SuperGrok Subscription Option Yet

The SuperGrok subscription, which unlocks premium features like advanced reasoning, higher image generation limits, and faster responses, cannot be purchased through the Android app—for now. However, the app indicates that this feature will be available soon.

Grok AI: Competing in the AI Race

The Android launch comes just weeks after Grok 3, the latest version of xAI’s model, was released. Prior to this, Grok was only available:

• As an iOS app (launched earlier this year).
• As an integrated chatbot on X (formerly Twitter), but only for select users.

With competitors like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Meta AI rapidly evolving, xAI’s move to expand access to Grok is crucial for staying relevant in the AI industry.

Grok’s Funding & Expansion Plans

xAI is backed by some of the biggest names in tech and finance. In December 2023, the company secured a massive $6 billion funding round from investors such as:

• A16Z, Blackrock, Fidelity, Kingdom Holdings, Sequoia Capital, Morgan Stanley, and Lightspeed.
• Tech giants Nvidia and AMD also participated, showing strong industry support for Musk’s AI ambitions.

This brings xAI’s total funding to $12 billion since its launch in July 2023—a staggering amount that signals big plans ahead for Grok and AI innovation.

What Makes Grok AI Unique?

Despite missing features on Android, Grok still boasts some unique capabilities that differentiate it from competitors:

1. Real-Time Information from X

Unlike other AI chatbots that rely purely on their training data, Grok taps into X (formerly Twitter) to provide real-time updates on trending topics, news, and world events.

2. “Unfiltered” AI Responses

Musk has positioned Grok as an AI chatbot that doesn’t hold back, claiming it offers more candid, unfiltered answers compared to other AI models, which often apply strict content moderation.

3. Advanced Features in the Pipeline

While features like Think, DeepSearch, and Voice Mode are missing now, xAI has hinted that these will be added in future updates, making Grok more competitive.

The AI Wars: How Grok Stacks Up Against Rivals

The AI chatbot market is getting fiercer, with companies racing to integrate more advanced models, features, and user experiences.

Competitors like OpenAI, Google, Meta, and Microsoft are continuously enhancing their AI products with:

• Improved conversational abilities
• Stronger reasoning and problem-solving skills
• Better integration with other apps and platforms

While Grok’s Android launch is a big step forward, its missing features could slow adoption—unless xAI moves quickly to roll out updates.

Is Grok Worth Trying?

If you’re an Android user eager to try Elon Musk’s AI assistant, Grok is now available for download—but keep in mind that it’s still in beta and missing some of its best features.

With real-time updates from X and Musk’s bold vision for AI, Grok has potential—but it needs fast improvements to keep up with OpenAI, Google, and Meta in the AI race.

Will xAI catch up and deliver the missing features soon? Time will tell.