Google is phasing out its Assistant voice service on mobile devices starting September 4th. The company announced the discontinuation through emails sent to users, marking the end of an era for the AI assistant that has been gradually superseded by Google’s newer Gemini platform.
The removal will affect Android phones, tablets, and connected devices including smartwatches, headphones, and earbuds. Users whose devices support Gemini and are located in regions where the service is available will have access to that AI assistant as a replacement. However, those without Gemini compatibility will lose their voice assistant functionality entirely on mobile devices.
Google Home devices and Google TV services will continue to support Assistant, as the shutdown primarily targets mobile platforms. The company had previously delayed this transition from 2025 to 2026, but the final deadline is now set. Cars with Android Auto will also lose Assistant access, though vehicles running Google Built-in will maintain the service for now.
This decision reflects Google’s strategic shift toward consolidating its AI offerings around Gemini. The transition process is expected to take several weeks to complete across all affected users and devices.
Originally reported by Theverge →
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