Introduction to Google Assistant’s Demise
Google Assistant is not long for this world. Google confirmed what many suspected last week, that it will transition everyone to Gemini in 2025. Assistant holdouts may find it hard to stay on Google’s old system until the end, though. Google has confirmed some popular Assistant features are being removed in the coming weeks. You may not miss all of them, but others could force a change to your daily routine.
Background on Google Assistant’s Phase-Out
As Google has increasingly become totally consumed by Gemini, it was a foregone conclusion that Assistant would get the ax eventually. In 2024, Google removed features like media alarms and voice messages, but that was just the start. The full list of removals is still available on its support page, but there’s now a new batch of features at the top.
Features on the Chopping Block
Here’s a rundown of what’s on the chopping block:
- Favorite, share, and ask where and when your photos were taken with your voice
- Change photo frame settings or ambient screen settings with your voice
- Translate your live conversation with someone who doesn’t speak your language with interpreter mode
- Get birthday reminder notifications as part of Routines
- Ask to schedule or hear previously scheduled Family Bell announcements
- Get daily updates from your Assistant, like “send me the weather everyday”
- Use Google Assistant on car accessories that have a Bluetooth connection or AUX plug
Impact of the Changes
Some of these are no great loss—you’ll probably live without the ability to get automatic birthday reminders or change smart display screensavers by voice. However, others are popular features that Google has promoted aggressively. For example, interpreter mode made a splash in 2019 and has been offering real-time translations ever since; Assistant can only translate a single phrase now. Many folks also use the scheduled updates in Assistant as part of their morning routine. Family Bell is much beloved, too, allowing Assistant to make custom announcements and interactive checklists, which can be handy for getting kids going in the morning. Attempting to trigger some of these features will offer a warning that they will go away soon.
Conclusion
Google’s decision to phase out Google Assistant and transition to Gemini will undoubtedly affect many users. While some features may not be greatly missed, others will require users to adjust their daily routines. As the removal of features continues, users will have to find alternative ways to perform tasks they have grown accustomed to.
FAQs
- Q: What is happening to Google Assistant?
A: Google Assistant is being phased out and will be replaced by Gemini in 2025. - Q: What features are being removed from Google Assistant?
A: A list of features, including interpreter mode, Family Bell, and daily updates, are being removed from Google Assistant. - Q: Why is Google removing these features?
A: Google is removing these features as part of its transition to Gemini. - Q: Can I still use Google Assistant after 2025?
A: Google has not confirmed whether Google Assistant will still be available after 2025, but it is likely that it will be phased out completely.
