According to ExtremeTech, Google has officially confirmed that Google Assistant will stop working on Android devices in March 2026, ending its nearly 10-year run. The smart assistant first launched in May 2016 and will be completely replaced by Gemini as Google’s primary digital assistant. This transition affects Android phones, Android Auto, Wear OS, Google TV, and other Google platforms. Currently, users can choose between both assistants, but that option disappears completely after the March 2026 deadline. Google claims Gemini understands the same voice commands as Assistant while allowing more natural conversation with the AI.
End of an era
This is basically the end of one of Google‘s most recognizable consumer tech features. Google Assistant has been everywhere – watches, TVs, cars, smart speakers. It’s been the voice helping people set timers, answer questions, and control smart homes for nearly a decade. And now it’s getting the retirement papers. Here’s the thing though – how many people are actually still using Assistant regularly? With the rise of ChatGPT and other AI assistants, Google’s original offering started feeling a bit dated.
What this means for users
For everyday Android users, this transition could be smoother than expected. Google says Gemini understands the same commands, so your “Hey Google, set a timer” should still work. But there’s always that learning curve when something familiar gets replaced. The bigger question is whether Gemini will actually be better or just different. Google’s betting that by 2026, users will have adapted and found Gemini to be a worthy successor. Personally, I think the success of this transition depends entirely on how well Gemini handles the simple, everyday tasks that made Assistant useful.
Broader implications
This move signals Google’s complete commitment to its Gemini AI brand across all products. They’re consolidating their AI efforts rather than maintaining multiple assistant brands. For developers and smart home manufacturers, this means updating integrations and ensuring compatibility with Gemini’s API. It’s another example of how quickly the AI landscape is evolving – features that seemed cutting-edge just a few years ago are now being phased out for next-generation technology. The race for AI dominance waits for no one, not even Google’s own creations.
