OpenAI has rolled out a new beta update for the ChatGPT app on Android, allowing users to set ChatGPT as their default digital assistant, effectively replacing Google’s Gemini (formerly Google Assistant).
How to Set ChatGPT as the Default Assistant
Once the update is available, Android users can set ChatGPT as their primary assistant, enabling them to invoke it using the standard assistant activation gestures:
- Long-pressing the home button (for users using the three-button navigation layout).
- Swiping up from either bottom corner (for users using gesture navigation).
- Long-pressing the power button, if the setting is enabled.
By default, ChatGPT will launch directly into voice mode, allowing users to interact with the AI assistant hands-free.
Limitations Compared to Gemini
While this marks a significant shift in how Android users can engage with AI assistants, ChatGPT still has some limitations compared to Gemini, including:
- No hotword activation – Unlike “Hey Google”, there is no “Hey ChatGPT” command to trigger the assistant. This is because certain privileged APIs required for wake-word activation are only available to preinstalled system apps like Gemini.
- Still in beta – The ChatGPT assistant functionality is currently limited to beta users, meaning non-beta users may have to wait for a broader release.
What This Means for Android Users
This development gives Android users more flexibility in choosing their preferred AI assistant. With OpenAI’s ChatGPT now able to replace Gemini, users can access OpenAI’s powerful AI models more conveniently on their devices.
However, whether ChatGPT will ever be as deeply integrated into Android as Gemini remains uncertain. The lack of hotword activation and system-level privileges means Gemini still has a home-field advantage—but OpenAI is making clear strides to compete in the AI assistant space.
For those interested in trying it out, joining the beta program for the ChatGPT Android app is the quickest way to access this new feature.
