Google is all set to bid adieu to its famed Google Assistant, and taking its place, is, you guessed it – Google Gemini!!
In a recent blog post, the company announced that it will be transitioning “more” users from the classic Assistant to its new AI-powered Gemini over the coming months. By the end of the year, Google Assistant will no longer be accessible on most mobile devices or available for download. (Though, for those clinging to older tech, phones running Android 9 or earlier with at least 2GB of RAM will still support the classic Assistant.)
But this isn’t just a mobile upgrade—it’s a full-scale revolution. Google plans to bring Gemini to tablets, cars, and connected devices like headphones and watches. Even home devices, such as speakers, displays, and TVs, will get a fresh experience powered by Gemini. It’s a sweeping change, one that underscores Google’s commitment to unifying its AI efforts under a single, futuristic banner.
When will we know more? Google promises details “in the next few months.” My bet? The company will unveil the full scope of this transition at Google I/O in May. Until then, Google Assistant will continue to operate on these devices, giving users a bit more time to adjust to the idea of saying goodbye. After all, change is never easy—especially when it involves something as familiar as Google Assistant.
Launched in 2016, Google Assistant has had a good run. But with Gemini now serving as the catch-all brand for Google’s AI ambitions, the retirement of Assistant feels almost inevitable. Is this a bold move? Definitely, but the AI Arms race is a rapid one, and for Google to fine tune Gemini further, they have to ensure that everyone who uses a Google powered device or services is using Gemini. More users means more data points, and that much
