Google Delays Gemini Rollout on Android as it Works to Replace Assistant

Google has pushed back the full rollout of its Gemini AI assistant on Android, delaying the replacement of Google Assistant until 2026. The company says the extra time will help it deliver a more reliable experience as it transitions users.

Gemini will not fully replace Assistant until 2026

Google had aimed to complete the transition from Google Assistant to Gemini by the end of 2025. It has now confirmed the switch will continue into 2026, giving teams more time to close feature gaps and improve day-to-day reliability.

Gemini already ships as the default assistant on some newer Android devices, but the experience varies across the Android ecosystem. Google wants to avoid removing Assistant before Gemini can cover core tasks consistently.

Google Assistant stays active on most Android devices

Google Assistant will remain available on most Android phones and tablets during the extended transition. Users should not see a sudden shutdown, and many devices will keep Assistant available while Gemini expands.

Google plans a gradual handoff so Gemini can take on more responsibilities without breaking common workflows. That includes communication, reminders, smart home controls, and other system-level actions.

Rollout varies by device and platform

Gemini does not roll out at the same pace on every Android device. Some phones already default to Gemini, while others still rely on Google Assistant, and regional availability can differ.

Google also continues to expand Gemini integration across its broader ecosystem, including experiences that connect to Android devices. Hardware differences and platform support increase the complexity of a full replacement.

Google remains committed to Gemini as its core AI assistant

Google has not changed its larger strategy to make Gemini its primary AI assistant. It positions Gemini as a more advanced assistant that can handle more contextual and generative requests than the current Assistant experience.

The delay suggests Google wants stability and feature completeness before it moves all users over. That matters because Assistant remains deeply integrated into Android features and daily routines.

What this means for users

Android users can keep using Google Assistant without major changes in the near term. Gemini will continue to expand, as evident in the recent launch of the Gemini 3 Flash model, and a full replacement now appears more likely, closer to 2026 than within the next few months.