When will Gemini fully replace Google Assistant on your Galaxy device?

Even though Gemini is the default AI voice assistant on newer Galaxy phones, tablets, and smartwatches, Google Assistant remains available on those devices. However, that will not be the case for much longer, as Google has announced when it plans to fully replace Google Assistant with Gemini across phones, tablets, and connected accessories.

Google sent an email to Google Assistant users this week notifying them that Gemini will replace Google Assistant starting September 4, 2026. The rollout will take a few weeks to reach all Galaxy phones, tablets, and smartwatches. Once Google Assistant is removed, you will no longer be able to access or switch back to it.

If your Galaxy device meets the minimum system requirements to run Gemini, you will not be able to switch back to Google Assistant after the transition occurs.

Galaxy Buds paired to your Galaxy phone or tablet will also transition to Gemini for voice commands. The same applies to your car's infotainment system: if you use Android Auto connected to your Galaxy phone, it will rely solely on Gemini for voice commands and other features.

While Google says it is committed to offering users an improved experience with Gemini, many people who have already switched from Google Assistant to Gemini complain that the new AI assistant is relatively slower and less reliable for certain basic tasks.

Google first showcased its newer, LLM-powered AI voice assistant in February 2023. Back then, it was named Google Bard. In February 2024, Google renamed Bard to Gemini and started rolling it out to Galaxy phones and tablets. It became available for Android Auto in early 2025. Gemini is even available on some high-end refrigerators from Samsung.