Google has finally confirmed when it will begin phasing out Google Assistant. After signalling the transition to Gemini over the past year, the search giant has announced that it will start removing access to the virtual assistant from supported Android devices beginning 4 September.
According to 9to5Google, the company recently sent an email to existing users informing them of the upcoming change. Google Assistant will be replaced by Gemini, which is now the company’s primary AI-powered assistant across its ecosystem.
Google explained that it will begin removing access to Google Assistant starting on the appointed date, although the rollout may take several weeks. Once access has been removed, users will no longer be able to use or switch back to Google Assistant on phones, tablets, or paired devices. This also extends to Wear OS watches, headphones, and “vehicles running Android Auto projected from a user’s mobile device”.
However, the company clarified that “cars with Google built-in, Google Assistant will continue to function” beyond the appointed date. The announcement also does not apply to other form factors for now, although Google noted that Gemini is coming to Google TV devices, as well as Google Home speakers and smart displays.
Google said the phased rollout is intended to provide users with a smooth transition, adding that “Gemini will offer an even more capable and helpful assistant experience”. At the time of writing, the “Switch to Google Assistant” option is still available within the Gemini app, although this is expected to disappear once the rollout reaches affected devices.
(Source: 9to5Google)
