Google changed the name of their AI platform Bard a few weeks ago, and it is now called Gemini. Google Assistant Can Now Be Replaced with Microsoft’s Copilot AI. In addition to offering more services like Gemini Advanced, the business also mentioned obliquely that Gemini can now take the role of Google Assistant on Android devices.It’s not a flawless exchange: Although Gemini can be a very helpful AI helper, it may not be quite ready for primetime just yet because it is unable to do several fundamental Google helper functions, including accessing your calendar. However, there is still hope for you if you would like to try out an AI bot as the assistant for your smartphone: Microsoft’s Copilot is now another AAA AI alternative.
Microsoft added the option to make Copilot your preferred assistant in the most recent beta version of the Copilot app. After that, you’ll be able to long-press the power button to turn on Copilot. But as it is, the implementation is far from perfect. Activating the assistant doesn’t display Copilot across the screen like a standard digital assistant would; instead, it only opens the Copilot activity, as Mishaal Rahman notes on X (previously Twitter). Furthermore, you cannot activate Copilot by speaking (don’t even try saying “Hey Copilot”).
Rahman speculates that Microsoft could be working on these integrations, and I agree—after all, this technology is still in development, and Microsoft still has a lot of work to do before making it available to the wider public.
How to set up Copilot as your Android helper
You must first sign up for the Copilot app beta if you wish to use Copilot as your assistant, even in its present restricted version. Fortunately, it’s not too hard: Navigate to the Play Store website for Copilot, then scroll down to the bottom and choose Join under Join the beta. On the popup, tap Join. Next, confirm that the Copilot app is up to date on your device.
After that is configured, navigate to Settings > Apps > Default apps > Digital assistant app, select Copilot by tapping Default digital assistant app. Even as a Copilot beta tester, it’s important to note that I do not yet see this option, suggesting that Microsoft may be releasing this upgrade gradually.
