According to Android Police, Google is officially delaying its forced replacement of Google Assistant with the Gemini AI on mobile platforms. The company had originally stated back in March that the “classic” Assistant would become inaccessible on most mobile devices before the end of 2025. Now, in a new support post, Google says it will continue upgrading users “into 2026” to ensure a “seemless transition.” This delay specifically impacts Android phones, WearOS watches, and compatible earbuds, while the separate rollout for Google Home devices remains unchanged. Google did not provide a precise new timeline or a detailed reason for the slowdown, only promising more information in the coming months.
Why The Sudden Brake Pump?
So, why the change of heart with less than two weeks left in the year? Google‘s official line is about delivering a seamless experience, but let’s be real. That’s corporate speak for “it’s not ready yet.” The likely truth is that forcing Gemini on every Android user is a massive, messy undertaking, and the feedback probably hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows. People rely on Assistant for quick, reliable tasks—setting timers, sending texts, controlling smart home gear. If Gemini is still flubbing those basics or feels slower, shoving it down everyone’s throat would be a customer service nightmare. This isn’t Google’s first rodeo with a botched transition, and they’re smart to be cautious.
A Temporary Reprieve, Not A Pardon
Here’s the thing: don’t get too comfortable. This is a delay, not a cancellation. The writing is on the wall, and Assistant’s days are still numbered. The “upgrade” is coming. The real question is what Google does with this extra time. Will they actually refine Gemini to be as snappy and dependable as Assistant was at its peak? Or will they just use the extra months to smooth over the technical backend while the user experience remains a step backward? History tells us to be skeptical. Big tech “upgrades” often feel like downgrades where the old, focused tool gets replaced by a newer, buzzword-laden one that tries to do too much.
What This Means For You Right Now
For now, you get a stay of execution. You can keep using Google Assistant on your phone and watch without being forced onto Gemini. If you’ve already switched and hate it, you might even be able to switch back for a while longer. But use this time wisely. Start testing Gemini side-by-side with Assistant for your daily routines. See where it falls short. Because once the forced migration resumes next year, you’ll want to know what you’re in for. And remember, this only applies to your mobile devices. If you’re using a Nest Hub or other Google Home gadget, that ecosystem is on its own separate—and possibly faster—track toward a Gemini future. The fragmentation is real, and it’s another layer of complexity Google has to manage. Can they pull it off? We’ll find out in 2026.
