What Happened

Google's plans to replace their Assistant AI with the open-source Gemini on Android devices have been delayed by one year. Instead of the initial end-of-2025 timeframe, Google will continue to upgrade Assistant users to Gemini on mobile devices into 2026.

Why It Matters

The announcement marks a shift in Google's priorities for the Assistant project. With the increasing popularity of open-source AI, Google recognizes the potential of Gemini to compete with its existing AI service. By delaying the switch, Google has the opportunity to fully polish and integrate Gemini with Android devices, resulting in a more seamless user experience.

Context & Background

The news comes as Google faces increasing competition from open-source AI projects such as ChatGPT and DALL-E. To stay ahead in the market, Google must continuously innovate and offer cutting-edge AI solutions. Gemini's release aligns with this goal, as it is a highly advanced AI model specifically designed for Android devices.

What to Watch Next

The release of Gemini on Android devices is expected to be a major milestone in the evolution of AI on mobile platforms. It will allow users to benefit from the capabilities of Gemini, such as natural language processing and image recognition, directly on their Android devices. Additionally, Google's focus on Gemini is a clear indication that they are committed to offering a comprehensive AI ecosystem for Android users.

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Source: The Verge – AI | Published: 2025-12-19