Google Delays Full Transition to Gemini for Assistant Users

Google has announced a significant change regarding the transition from its Google Assistant to the new Gemini system. Originally scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, the company has postponed the full switch to 2026. This adjustment was confirmed in a community update released on Friday, as reported by The Verge. The decision aims to facilitate a “seamless transition” for users, who have relied on the Assistant for over a decade.

The delay is indicative of the challenges involved in migrating hundreds of millions of users from a long-standing command-and-control system to a new large language model (LLM)-based assistant. While Gemini has demonstrated impressive capabilities, such as “vibe-coding” — a method of summarizing information — it has faced difficulties with basic tasks like setting timers or controlling smart devices. This transition period allows Google to refine Gemini and achieve full feature parity with the existing Assistant.

What to Expect Moving Forward

Despite the extended timeline, the transition to Gemini is underway. The system is already the default assistant on the Pixel 10 series and is being incorporated into platforms like Wear OS, Android Auto, and Google Home. Users on older devices can expect to retain access to Google Assistant for several more months, providing them with stability as they adjust to the changes.

Once the transition is finalized in 2026, the standalone Google Assistant app will be removed from the Play Store. Devices that meet the new requirements—specifically, those running Android 10 or higher with at least 2GB of RAM—will be required to upgrade to Gemini. Internal documents suggest that March 2026 may be a critical date for certain platforms, including Android Auto, although Google has indicated that further details will be shared in the coming months.

For users who have already made the switch to Gemini and enjoy its features, the delay will not significantly impact their experience. However, those who have preferred to stick with the familiar Assistant for daily tasks will benefit from the additional time to explore Gemini’s new capabilities, which include making calls and setting timers without the need for AI training toggled on.

As the transition progresses, it is clear that Google is committed to ensuring that users have a smooth experience with Gemini. While the future of voice assistance is evolving, the path forward may take a little longer than initially planned, allowing time for improvement and adaptation.