Google Replacing Assistant with Gemini

Google has announced that it will begin replacing Google Assistant with Gemini across a wide range of devices later this year. The transition will apply to mobile phones, tablets, cars, and connected devices such as smartwatches, headphones, and even some TV-connected systems. However, older models running Android 9 or earlier, as well as certain other unspecified devices, will not be included in the upgrade.

This shift has been expected for some time. When Google first launched Bard—later rebranded as Gemini—the company made it clear that it planned to integrate Bard’s capabilities into Google Assistant. The transition became even more apparent in early 2024 when Google removed several features from the Assistant, paving the way for Gemini to take over.

According to Google’s official statement, “Over the coming months, we’re upgrading more users on mobile devices from Google Assistant to Gemini; and later this year, the classic Google Assistant will no longer be accessible on most mobile devices or available for new downloads on mobile app stores.” This means that as Gemini continues to expand, users still relying on Assistant will need to adjust to the new system.

The decision to phase out Google Assistant in favour of Gemini reflects Google’s broader shift towards AI-driven virtual assistants with advanced reasoning and conversational abilities. Unlike its predecessor, Gemini is expected to offer deeper integration with Google’s ecosystem, providing more sophisticated responses and enhanced personalisation features.

One of the key motivations behind this transition is Gemini’s ability to process and understand complex queries more efficiently than Google Assistant. With improvements in AI models, Google aims to offer users a more intuitive and capable digital assistant that goes beyond simple commands and responses.

However, the update raises concerns for those who rely on Google Assistant’s existing functionalities, especially users who use it for home automation, reminders, or other everyday tasks. As Google continues to refine Gemini, there may be adjustments needed to ensure all key features remain accessible.

The company has also confirmed that once the transition is complete, the classic Google Assistant will no longer be available for new downloads from mobile app stores. This means users who prefer Assistant over Gemini may not have the option to reinstall it in the future.

For those eager to experience Gemini’s features, Google is expected to roll out updates gradually. Users should ensure their devices are compatible and prepare for changes in how they interact with Google’s AI-powered assistant. The full list of supported devices and regions has not yet been announced, but more details are expected as the rollout progresses.

As AI technology continues to evolve, Google’s move to replace Assistant with Gemini marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to provide smarter, more responsive digital assistants. Whether this transition will be a seamless improvement or cause disruption for long-time Assistant users remains to be seen.

For now, users are encouraged to stay informed about the upcoming changes and explore Gemini’s capabilities as it gradually takes over as Google’s primary virtual assistant.

Google has confirmed that it will upgrade a wide range of devices, including tablets, cars, and accessories such as headphones and smartwatches, to its new AI assistant, Gemini. Additionally, a new Gemini-powered experience will be introduced for home devices, including smart speakers, displays, and TVs. This move marks a major shift in Google’s approach to AI-driven assistance across its ecosystem.

However, not all devices will be eligible for the transition. Google has specified that phones running Android 9 or earlier, as well as devices with less than 2GB of RAM, will not be included in the upgrade. According to Google’s official post, the Gemini mobile app will be available on Android phones, including foldables, as long as they have at least 2GB of RAM and are running Android 10 or newer. The same requirements apply to Android tablets, including the Pixel Tablet.

This transition has been widely anticipated, given Google’s gradual move away from Google Assistant. Many users may be surprised that it has taken this long to fully phase out the Assistant, but the shift to Gemini signals Google’s long-term vision for AI-driven services. With more advanced capabilities, Gemini is expected to provide a more seamless and intelligent user experience across multiple devices.

Looking ahead, it is clear that Gemini is set to become a core part of Google’s ecosystem, influencing not only Android devices but also Google Search and other key services. As the rollout continues, users should prepare for changes in how they interact with their devices and explore the new features that Gemini will introduce.