Google Assistant will vanish from Android phones and connected devices in September

Google’s Assistant, a long-standing feature on Android devices, is set to disappear in September, according to recent announcements. This decision comes amid the shift towards the new Gemini chatbot. The company has begun notifying users via email that the Assistant will be phased out beginning September 4. The process may take several weeks to complete.

The transition will only affect Android phones and tablets meeting the minimum specifications to run Gemini and in regions where the chatbot is available. This includes paired devices like headphones capable of supporting Gemini. Google TV, Google Home, and smart displays are unaffected at this time.

Google has assured that a legacy version of Assistant will continue to operate on Android devices running version 9 or older with less than 2GB of RAM, allowing them to perform basic tasks. The chatbot will still be accessible on Google’s cars, although it won’t be available on vehicles running Android Auto, which is controlled via a user’s mobile device.

For those interested in trying Gemini, it can be downloaded from the Play Store. For the time being, users can enjoy their devices without the Assistant. Google’s upcoming Pixel devices will be revealed on August 12.