Jakarta, INTI - The Google Assistant virtual assistant service will officially be discontinued in 2026. Google has set September 4 as the start date for phasing out the service on Android devices and has notified users via email.
In the notification, Google stated that Google Assistant will be discontinued and replaced by Gemini, the company’s next-generation AI-powered assistant, as the primary assistant on Android devices.
This process is expected to take several weeks to reach all users. Once access is revoked, users will no longer be able to use or switch back to Google Assistant on phones, tablets, or connected devices.
“As we transition our mobile experience to Gemini, Google Assistant will no longer be available on your mobile device. We will begin removing access to Google Assistant starting on September 4, and expect that this process may take a few weeks to reach everyone,” as written in the email.
Discontinuation Beyond Mobile Devices
The discontinuation also applies to Wear OS devices, headphones, and vehicles using Android Auto. However, Google confirmed that Assistant will remain available in cars equipped with the Google built-in system.
"We are committed to providing a smooth transition and are confident that Gemini will offer you an even more capable and helpful assistant experience," Google wrote in its announcement.
Previously, the discontinuation of Google Assistant was planned for late 2025, but the schedule was then pushed back to 2026. Currently, the "Switch to Google Assistant" option is still available.
Conclusion
Google will begin discontinuing Google Assistant services on Android devices starting September 4, 2026, replacing it with Gemini as the primary AI assistant. Once access is withdrawn, users will no longer be able to use Google Assistant on phones, tablets, Wear OS devices, headphones, Android Auto, and other paired devices.
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