lipflip – Google has announced a delay in its plan to replace Google Assistant with Gemini on most Android phones. The company previously aimed to complete the transition by the end of 2025. It now says additional time is required to ensure a smooth user experience.
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In a recent statement, Google said it is adjusting its previously announced timeline. The company emphasized the need to deliver a seamless transition for users. As a result, updates converting Assistant to Gemini will continue into the next year.
Google did not provide a revised final deadline. However, it said it will share more details in the coming months. This suggests the transition could extend beyond early 2026. The announcement reflects the complexity of replacing a long-standing digital assistant. Replacing it affects daily user interactions across devices.
Google said Gemini will eventually become the default digital helper for most Android users. The company positions Gemini as a more advanced AI-powered assistant. The company has already begun rolling out Gemini features gradually. These include smart home controls and device management functions.
Google’s statement indicates that Assistant will not be removed abruptly. Instead, the transition will continue through staged updates. This approach aims to reduce disruption for users. The delay does not change Google’s overall strategy. The company remains committed to replacing Assistant with Gemini. It describes Gemini as central to its future AI ecosystem.
Gemini Expansion Continues Across Android, Pixel, and Connected Devices
Google Assistant’s retirement was widely expected after Gemini’s launch. Google introduced Gemini as its next-generation AI assistant. It began transferring Assistant features shortly after release. One major milestone occurred in 2024. Google launched the Pixel 9 series with Gemini as the default assistant. This move signaled the beginning of a broader platform shift.
Since then, Google has expanded Gemini across many products. The company has integrated Gemini into various Google services. It has also emphasized Gemini’s role beyond smartphones. Google previously stated plans to upgrade multiple device categories. These include tablets, cars, and accessories connected to phones. Headphones and smartwatches are also included in the plan.
The company aims to create a consistent assistant experience. Gemini is intended to function across screens and form factors. Google describes this as a unified AI assistant strategy. However, not all devices will qualify for the upgrade. Google outlined minimum technical requirements for Gemini. Devices must run Android 10 or newer. They must also include at least 2GB of RAM.
These requirements limit eligibility for older hardware. Some users may continue using Google Assistant for longer. Google has not clarified how long unsupported devices will retain Assistant. Industry observers note that such transitions are technically challenging. Digital assistants interact with system-level functions and third-party applications. Ensuring compatibility across devices takes time.
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Google’s emphasis on a seamless transition reflects these challenges. Abrupt changes could disrupt smart home controls and voice workflows. The company appears focused on minimizing user frustration. The continued rollout also allows Google to refine Gemini’s capabilities. User feedback during the transition may influence feature development. Google has positioned Gemini as more conversational and context-aware.
While the timeline has shifted, Google’s direction remains clear. Gemini is intended to replace Assistant across Android and connected devices. The extended schedule suggests a cautious approach. As updates continue into 2026, users can expect gradual changes. Google has promised further communication in the coming months. The full transition to Gemini remains underway, albeit at a slower pace.