In February 2024, Google launched the Gemini app for Android users. Gemini was meant to serve as a more streamlined entry point for accessing Google’s latest large language model (LLM).
This release was also part of a broader rebranding effort for Bard, Google’s artificial intelligence chatbot and digital assistant.
Installing Gemini replaced Google Assistant as the primary smart assistant on an Android device. As a tech-savvy user, I decided to switch over to Gemini to see what the new assistant had to offer. However, after two months of use, my experience has been a mixed bag.
While Gemini excels in certain areas, it falls short of replicating some tasks Google Assistant did with ease. For instance, asking Gemini to open Spotify and play my liked playlist is a more convoluted process compared to the seamless experience with Google Assistant.
Google has acknowledged that Gemini does not yet support some of the voice features available in Google Assistant, such as controlling smart home routines and media playback.
However, given that Gemini has now been available for two months, one would expect more of these basic functionalities to be implemented.
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As a result, I have reverted to using Google Assistant for the time being, even though this means sacrificing some of the newer features introduced with Gemini.
If you’re facing similar issues, this article will guide you through the process of reverting to Google Assistant on your Android device.
How to Switch Back to the Google Assistant
Thankfully, Google has provided official support for users looking to revert from Gemini to Google Assistant. If you’re ready to make the switch, simply follow the following steps:
- Open the Gemini mobile app.
- In the top right corner, tap on your account profile picture and select “Settings.”
- Scroll down to the “Digital assistants from Google” option.
- Tap to switch back to Google Assistant.
Even after reverting to Google Assistant, you can leave the Gemini app installed on your smartphone. This will allow you to switch back to Gemini as needed.
However, it’s important to note that certain Gemini-exclusive features, such as generative text and image capabilities, will not be available when Google Assistant is set as the primary digital assistant.
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This flexibility gives users the freedom to experiment with Gemini while still maintaining access to the full range of Google Assistant functionality.
Should you find that Gemini’s limitations outweigh its benefits for your day-to-day use, reverting to the proven capabilities of Google Assistant is a straightforward process.
What Can You Do With Gemini?
With Gemini, you can leverage its advanced language models for tasks such as writing assistance, brainstorming, and even emotional labor support.
The app also allows you to generate images from textual descriptions, and you can ask Gemini to provide more context on topics you’re researching or reading about.
However, it’s important to note that many of these features are also accessible through the web version of Gemini without the need to displace the well-established Google Assistant on your smartphone.
While Gemini offers a convenient integrated experience, users can selectively utilize its specialized capabilities while maintaining Google Assistant as their primary digital assistant for day-to-day tasks and device integration.