Google has announced that it will phase out its long-standing digital Assistant in favor of Gemini, a more advanced artificial intelligence-powered assistant. The transition, set to take place over the coming months, marks a significant shift in the company’s approach to AI-driven user interactions.
In a blog post on Friday, the tech giant revealed that Gemini will gradually replace Google Assistant on mobile devices, with the classic version becoming inaccessible on most smartphones later this year. The move aligns with Google’s broader strategy to integrate generative AI more deeply into its products and services.
“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,” the company stated.
Millions of users have already made the switch to Gemini, and Google says the feedback has been largely positive, with users praising its enhanced AI-driven capabilities. The transition will begin with smartphones before expanding to other devices, including tablets, cars, smartwatches, and headphones.
Google is also working on introducing Gemini-powered experiences for smart home devices like speakers, displays, and televisions. However, for now, Assistant will continue to function on these devices, allowing users time to adjust before a full transition takes place.
The shift to Gemini follows the recent launch of Google’s Pixel 9 smartphone, where the AI-powered assistant debuted as the default virtual assistant. The move signals Google’s commitment to making AI a central part of its ecosystem, promising users a more intelligent and responsive experience.
