Google is delaying Gemini rollout, Assistant to remain on Android
What's the story
Google has announced a delay in the transition from Assistant to its new AI model, Gemini, on Android devices. The tech giant said it will continue upgrading users to Gemini throughout 2026 instead of the previously planned timeline of late 2025. "We're adjusting our previously announced timeline to make sure we deliver a seamless transition," Google said in its statement.
User experience
Transition impact and current Gemini capabilities
Once the transition from Google Assistant is complete, users won't be able to use the voice assistant on devices that meet Gemini's minimum requirements. The Google Assistant app will also not be available for download. However, this year, Google has already brought Gemini support to Wear OS smartwatches, Android Auto, Nest and Google Home devices.
Feature update
Gemini's assistant-like capabilities without AI training
Earlier this year, Google had started the process of replacing Assistant with Gemini on Android. The company allowed users to make phone calls, set timers, and send messages through Gemini without having the Gemini Apps Activity toggled on. This change lets users enjoy Gemini's assistant-like features while opting out of their interactions being used for AI training.