Google initially announced in March that Gemini would replace Assistant on Android phones this year, but that transition is now being pushed back to 2026.
Google shared an update today regarding its plans to upgrade the Assistant experience to Gemini on most mobile devices. The company is adjusting the timeline to “deliver a seamless transition.”
The upgrade of Assistant users to Gemini on mobile devices will now extend into 2026,with further details expected in the “coming months.” This delay impacts the complete phasing out of Google Assistant on Android phones and tablets, as well as the discontinuation of the standalone iOS app.
Pro tip-While waiting for the full switch,explore Gemini’s current capabilities on Wear OS,Google TV,and Android Auto to familiarize yourself with the new experience.
Currently, an option to “Switch to Google Assistant” remains within the Gemini app, including on the Pixel 10 series. The migration will likely occur gradually, as there isn’t sufficient time left in 2025 to complete it. Additionally, implementing changes during the busy holiday season is often disruptive. Google’s decision stems from a desire to ensure a smooth user experience during the transition.
it remains unclear whether Google encountered time constraints in initiating the migration or is focused on incorporating more Assistant features into Gemini before the switch. The company has not publicly detailed the specific reasons for the delay, only emphasizing the importance of a seamless transition.
Reader question-What Assistant features are most vital to you? Share your thoughts on how Gemini can best replicate or improve upon them.
As of today, Gemini is available on Wear OS and is rolling out to Google TV and Android auto. The Gemini for Home Early Access program for smart speakers and displays is also ongoing. This phased rollout allows Google to gather feedback and refine the Gemini experience before the full Assistant replacement.
The year 2026 now appears to be the target for the full replacement of Google Assistant, a fitting timeline considering Assistant first launched in 2016.The original plan to replace Assistant this year proved too aspiring, leading to the revised schedule.
More on the Gemini app:
What’s the holdup with Gemini replacing Assistant? Google says it wants to ensure a smooth transition for users, pushing the full rollout to 2026.
