Google to Replace Its Longstanding Voice Assistant with AI Gemini by 2026

Google announced it will phase out its long-standing voice assistant, Google Assistant, replacing it with its new artificial intelligence system, Gemini. This transition will begin on September 4, 2026, and is expected to take several weeks to complete. After this date, users will no longer have access to the original Assistant on mobile phones, tablets, Wear OS watches, headphones, and Android Auto systems.

However, Google Assistant will continue to operate in vehicles equipped with built-in Google systems. Meanwhile, Google plans to expand Gemini to other smart home devices such as Google TV, smart speakers, and Google Home displays, though the timeline for Gemini's arrival on Pixel tablets in docked mode remains unclear.

Originally, Google intended to end support for the old Assistant by the end of 2025 but extended the deadline to ensure a smoother transition. Currently, users can temporarily revert to Google Assistant within the Gemini app, but this option will be removed once the transition completes. Google expresses confidence that Gemini will offer a more advanced and capable personal assistant experience, aiming to make the switch seamless for users as AI becomes more integrated into daily device interactions.