Google Assistant on Galaxy phones gets a lifeline, for now

Back in 2023, Google launched Gemini to replace Google Assistant. Earlier this year, the internet search giant said it planned to replace Google Assistant with Gemini on mobile devices, like Galaxy phones, before the end of this year. However, that isn't happening, as the digital assistant is getting a lifeline, for now.

Three days ago, Google announced (via 9To5Google) that there have been some changes to its original plan. The company will now replace Google Assistant on mobile devices with Gemini in 2026. Anish K, Community Manager of the Gemini Apps Team at Google, said, this delay is to make sure that the company can “deliver a seamless transition.” Google will continue to work on the migration process in 2026 and will offer more updates about it in the coming months.

Since the company hasn't revealed when the complete switch will happen, the official wait time extends to the end of 2026. So, expect to see Google Assistant in some scenarios on your Galaxy phones and tablets for the next few months. Google Assistant has already disappeared from Samsung's TVs that came with it.

When the complete transition happens, Google Assistant will completely disappear from Android phones and tablets. Standalone Gemini app for iPhones and iPads will also be discontinued. And the only way for people to use a digital assistant from Google would be to use Gemini.