Google has made the decision to phase out Google Assistant, replacing it with a new AI-powered assistant called Gemini. Announced in 2016, Google Assistant was initially well-received. However, feedback indicated that users desired a more personalized companion that could help them with their tasks more effectively.
Gemini is an advanced AI assistant designed from scratch, featuring improved language understanding and reasoning capabilities. Google has already begun rolling out Gemini on many Android devices. A recent blog post from Google confirms that the original Google Assistant is being retired to streamline the experience and provide what they call “help only possible with the power of AI.”
Millions of users have reportedly transitioned from Google Assistant to Gemini, sharing positive experiences about the new assistant’s features in their daily routines. To bring Gemini to a larger audience, Google plans to upgrade more mobile devices in the coming months. After this upgrade, the classic Google Assistant will no longer be available on most mobile devices or listed for download in app stores.
Brian Marquardt, Senior Director of Gemini app Product Management, anticipates a complete transition by March 2025. Currently, users can switch back to Google Assistant, but this option will soon be removed. Additionally, other devices, including tablets, vehicles, and smartwatches, will be updated to support Gemini.
Devices that do not meet Gemini’s minimum requirements—specifically those with at least 2 GB of RAM and Android 10 or later—will still have access to Google Assistant. Google has made significant improvements to the Gemini app since its launch, integrating features users appreciated in Google Assistant, aiming for a seamless transition.