Google set to replace Assistant with AI-powered Gemini

Google is phasing out its long-running voice assistant in favour of Gemini, an advanced AI model that combines conversational capabilities, visual updates, and new productivity tools to deliver a more interactive and intelligent user experience

Google is preparing to retire Google Assistant, its long-standing voice-enabled digital assistant, as it transitions users fully to Gemini, the company’s new AI-driven conversational platform. For over a year, users could toggle between the two assistants, but Google is now removing this option from Android settings, signalling a complete shift to Gemini.

According to reports, the latest Gemini app code for Android reveals that the “Digital assistants from Google” setting — which allowed users to revert to Assistant — will soon be removed. This move cements Google’s strategy to unify its AI ecosystem under the Gemini brand.

Enhanced AI features and new interface

Google has gradually migrated many Assistant-exclusive features to Gemini, ensuring users retain familiar functionality while gaining access to advanced AI tools. Gemini not only performs all traditional assistant tasks — such as reminders and search queries — but also delivers richer responses, integrates visual content, and processes complex commands more efficiently.

Upcoming updates will introduce a new interface design featuring an Instagram-like scrollable feed, a welcome screen, and quick-access shortcuts to tools such as Create Image and Deep Research. The app is also expected to add buttons for expanding long messages, a “Jump to bottom” shortcut, and smoother query animations, enhancing the overall conversational experience.

As Google consolidates its AI services, the transition marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of digital assistants — moving from voice-based helpers to fully multimodal, generative AI companions built for deeper engagement and productivity.