Google has begun the final phase of transitioning from Google Assistant to Gemini, its new AI-powered virtual assistant. After nearly nine years of service, Google Assistant is being gradually replaced across Android devices, Nest smart home products, and other ecosystems.
The move marks a major shift in Google’s AI strategy, prioritizing Gemini’s more advanced capabilities over Assistant’s long-standing but limited functionality. However, this transition comes with several feature removals, leaving some users without familiar tools they’ve relied on for years.
Google is Rapidly Retiring Assistant Features
While the official transition to Gemini is set to complete in 2025, Google is wasting no time in removing several core Assistant features. Some of these features were widely used on smart displays, Nest devices, and Android phones, and their removal may require users to find alternative solutions.
Key Google Assistant Features Being Phased Out
1. Live Translation in Interpreter Mode
- This feature allowed users to translate conversations in real time using Nest devices.
- It was particularly useful for travelers and multilingual households.
- While basic translation (words and phrases) will remain, the real-time live translation function is being discontinued.
2. Family Bell Announcements
- Users can no longer schedule or receive Family Bell reminders, which were used to create audio alerts for daily routines, chores, or events.
- This feature was especially popular among families who used it for meal times, homework reminders, and bedtime alerts.
3. Birthday Reminder Notifications
- The Assistant will no longer provide birthday reminders.
- Users must now manually set reminders through the standard reminder function.
4. Voice-Based Photo Favorites and Sharing
- Users can no longer use voice commands to favorite or share photos.
- Manual sharing and favoriting remain available within Google Photos.
5. Voice Commands for Photo Frame and Ambient Display Settings
- Previously, users could change the photo frame or ambient display settings on Nest devices using voice commands.
- Now, these settings must be adjusted manually via menus.
6. Daily Automated Assistant Updates
- The “send me the weather every day” command is disappearing.
- Users can still achieve similar results by setting up custom routines in Assistant Routines.
7. Assistant Support for Bluetooth and AUX-Connected Car Accessories
- One of the biggest losses—Google Assistant will no longer work via older Bluetooth and AUX car accessories.
- Users who relied on Assistant for hands-free driving assistance via these accessories will have to seek alternative solutions.
What Comes Next for Google Assistant Users?
Will These Features Return in Gemini?
- Google has not confirmed if all these features will return in Gemini, but some may reappear in a more advanced form.
- Gemini’s AI capabilities suggest that some functions—such as live translation and routine reminders—could be significantly improved.
Google I/O 2025: The Next Big Reveal
- The next major Google I/O event (May 20-21, 2025) is expected to provide more details about Gemini’s long-term roadmap.
- Users might see new AI-powered enhancements replacing old Assistant features.
How Can Users Adapt?
While these removals are frustrating, here’s how users can work around the missing features:
- Use Google Routines
- While direct daily weather alerts are removed, users can set up Assistant Routines to automate similar actions.
- Manually Set Reminders
- Birthday and event reminders can still be set manually in Google Calendar.
- Try Third-Party Translation Apps
- Since Live Translation is going away, consider using alternatives like Google Translate or Microsoft Translator.
- Explore Android Auto for Car Assistance
- Users losing Bluetooth and AUX Assistant support may find Android Auto’s built-in voice commands helpful.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Google AI
The transition from Google Assistant to Gemini marks the beginning of a new AI-driven era, but it comes at the cost of losing familiar features. While Google is prioritizing more advanced AI capabilities, some users may find themselves frustrated by the premature removal of essential tools.
The big question remains: Will Gemini be able to replace and enhance all the missing functions, or will Google Assistant users be left looking for alternatives? We’ll have to wait until Google I/O 2025 for more answers.
Are you affected by these Assistant feature removals? Do you think Gemini will make up for them? Let us know your thoughts!
