Google pushes Gemini rollout to 2026, delays Android Assistant swap
Why does this matter now? For years, Android users have expected a smooth handoff from the familiar voice assistant to Google’s next‑gen large‑language model, Gemini. The plan was to roll out the new AI across phones and tablets while keeping the existing experience intact.
But the schedule has slipped. While the tech behind Gemini has been praised for its conversational depth, the rollout date has been nudged forward by several years, pushing the full migration to 2026. That shift means millions of devices will continue running the older assistant longer than anticipated, and developers will have to adjust their roadmaps accordingly.
Here’s the thing: Google isn’t just postponing a feature; it’s redefining when users will lose access to the voice assistant they rely on daily. The company says the delay is meant to ensure a “seamless transition.” Once the switch is finally complete, the classic Google Assistant will disappear from Android devices altogether.
Google's timeline for switching devices to Gemini now lands in 2026. "We're adjusting our previously announced timeline to make sure we deliver a seamless transition," Google says. Once the transition away from Google Assistant is complete, users will no longer be able to access the voice assistant on devices that meet the minimum requirements to run Gemini.
Users also won't be able to download the Google Assistant app. Google has already brought Gemini to Wear OS smart watches, Android Auto, and Nest and Google Home devices. This year, Google took steps toward replacing Assistant with Gemini on Android by giving users the ability to initiate phone calls, set timers, and send messages through Gemini without Gemini Apps Activity toggled on.
Will Android users finally get Gemini? Not this year. Google announced Friday that the migration from its long‑standing Assistant to the Gemini AI will now stretch into 2026, pushing back the original end‑2025 target.
The company said it is “adjusting our previously announced timeline to make sure we deliver a seamless transition,” implying technical or integration hurdles remain. Users can expect the upgrade to roll out gradually, but the exact cadence is still vague. Once the switch is complete, the legacy voice assistant will disappear, meaning no more access to the familiar Google Assistant interface.
That raises questions about support for existing routines and third‑party actions, but Google has offered no details. The statement stops short of explaining why the delay was necessary, leaving analysts to wonder whether the underlying models are ready for mobile deployment. Until more information emerges, the promised Gemini experience on Android remains a future promise rather than a present reality.
Further Reading
- The Assistant lives: Google says it will 'adjust' its timeline for its Gemini transition - Android Central
- Google Pushes Mobile Gemini Transition To 2026 - FindArticles
- Google Assistant shutdown hinted, but only for Android Auto - 9to5Google
- Google Extends Gemini AI Rollout to 2026: What Changed - Android GadgetHacks
- Gemini for Home takes its first step outside the US - Android Police
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Common Questions Answered
When is Google now planning to complete the migration from Google Assistant to Gemini on Android devices?
Google has pushed the full migration deadline to 2026, moving it beyond the original end‑2025 target. The company says the delay will help ensure a seamless transition for users.
What will happen to the Google Assistant app on devices that meet the minimum requirements for Gemini?
Once the transition is finished, devices that can run Gemini will no longer support the Google Assistant app, and users will be unable to download it. The voice assistant functionality will be fully replaced by Gemini.
Has Gemini already been deployed on any Google hardware platforms?
Yes, Gemini has already been introduced on Wear OS smart watches. This early rollout demonstrates the model’s compatibility with smaller form‑factor devices before the broader Android rollout.
Why did Google say it needed to adjust the timeline for the Gemini rollout?
Google cited the need to deliver a seamless transition, implying there are still technical or integration challenges to resolve. The company wants to avoid a fragmented user experience during the migration.