In a significant shift, Google has announced that it will phase out Google Assistant on Android devices and replace it with its more advanced AI-powered platform, Gemini. The transition will take place over the coming months, with the full switch expected to be completed later this year. In a blog post published on Friday, Google confirmed that it will upgrade more users from Google Assistant to Gemini “over the coming months.” Once the transition is complete, Google Assistant will no longer be accessible on most mobile devices or available for download from app stores.
Transition to Gemini Across Devices
Google stated that the transition will not be limited to smartphones. Tablets, cars, and wearable devices connected to phones — including headphones and smartwatches — will also be upgraded to Gemini. Moreover, the company plans to introduce a Gemini-powered experience to home devices such as smart speakers, smart displays, and TVs.
“We’ll be upgrading tablets, cars, and devices that connect to your phone, such as headphones and watches, to Gemini,” the company said in its statement. “We’re also bringing a new experience, powered by Gemini, to home devices like speakers, displays and TVs.”
Improved User Experience and New Features
Google has been working to enhance the Gemini experience to ensure a smooth transition for existing Assistant users. The company highlighted that several highly requested features have already been integrated into Gemini on Android devices. These include the ability to play music, set timers, and perform actions directly from a user’s lock screen.
The decision to replace Assistant with Gemini reflects Google’s broader strategy to leverage artificial intelligence to deliver a more powerful and versatile virtual assistant. Gemini, which was introduced with the launch of the Pixel 9 smartphone line, has more advanced capabilities than Assistant, including deeper contextual understanding and more natural language processing.
Features such as Gemini Live and Deep Research are designed to provide more interactive and in-depth assistance. Gemini Live allows for real-time conversation with the assistant, while Deep Research enables users to explore complex topics in detail.
Rollout Timeline and User Transition
Google confirmed it will share more details about the transition in the coming months. In the meantime, Google Assistant will continue to function as usual on supported devices until the transition to Gemini is fully implemented.
While the shift to Gemini marks the end of an era for Google Assistant, it signals Google’s increasing focus on artificial intelligence and its potential to revolutionize user interactions with technology. Google aims to deliver a more intuitive and responsive user experience by integrating advanced AI capabilities into everyday devices.
As the transition unfolds, existing Assistant users can expect notifications and prompts guiding them through the upgrade process to Gemini.
For more details on this transition, check out the official announcement here.