Google Replaces Google Assistant With Gemini on Android Devices

Google LLC will begin discontinuing Google Assistant on eligible Android phones, tablets, and paired devices starting September 4, 2026. The rollout includes Wear OS watches, earbuds, and Android Auto. The transition to Gemini as the default assistant will occur over several weeks, and users will be unable to switch back to Google Assistant once the update is applied to their device.

Certain devices that do not meet minimum system requirements for Gemini or are located in unsupported regions will temporarily retain access to Google Assistant. A separate transition schedule will be established for smart speakers, smart displays, Google TV devices, and vehicles with Google built-in, as these are exempt from the September cutoff.

This migration follows a delay from 2025, which allowed the company to refine Gemini's capacity to manage simple device controls. The company stated that Gemini can handle the same commands as its predecessor while allowing more natural conversations.