Google has recently announced a major shift as it prepares to phase out several features of Google Assistant in favor of its new AI assistant, Gemini. This transition will take place throughout 2025 and marks the end of an era for the virtual assistant, which has been aiding Android users since its launch in 2016. Gemini will replace Google Assistant, not only on most Android devices but also on other platforms like Nest smart home gadgets.
As part of this transition, Google confirmed that various popular Assistant functionalities will be retired. Notably, the Live Translation feature in Interpreter mode will be removed, meaning users will no longer have the ability to break language barriers in real-time using their devices. While you can still translate individual words or phrases, the comprehensive functionality will be lost.
Other features being discontinued include Family Bell announcements, which provided audio alerts for daily routines and chores. Users will also no longer be able to set birthday reminders through Google Assistant, although they can still create manual reminders. Furthermore, voice-based photo sharing and favoriting will also be phased out, requiring more manual actions going forward.
Noteworthy among these changes is the removal of voice commands for adjusting photo frame and ambient display settings, as well as daily automated Assistant updates like morning weather alerts. Users will need to establish custom routines to achieve similar results. Additionally, Google Assistant will no longer function through older Bluetooth and AUX-connected car accessories, which could be a significant inconvenience for many.
Looking ahead, Google is expected to incorporate some of these features, or possibly enhanced versions, into Gemini. Further details on Gemini are anticipated to be revealed at the Google I/O event scheduled for May 20-21, 2025. In the meantime, affected users may need to adapt their workflows or explore alternative functionalities that remain available.