Google pulls back Assistant features on Android & Nest as it makes AI shift

It’s hard to believe, but Google Assistant is nearing the end of the road. After years of helping us with reminders, smart home controls, and quick info, Google is retiring several Assistant features on Android and its smart home device, Nest, as it shifts to Gemini, its new AI platform, with reports suggesting this shift is excepted to be fully completed by the end of 2025.

This shift isn’t random.

Google’s move to phase out Assistant stems from its push to offer more advanced AI services. Gemini introduces new tools like custom AI assistants, or "Gems," for tasks like meal planning and career advice, offering more tailored and efficient support. While Gemini promises smarter and more capable AI interactions, this transition means losing up to seven familiar features that have become part of daily routines. To make way for these changes, several key functions are disappearing,

For instance, you’ll no longer be able to favourite, share, or ask where and when your photos were taken with your voice — but you can still manage that in Google Photos. Changing photo frames or ambient screen settings with your voice is also going away, though you can still adjust these manually.

Interpreter mode for live conversations is also coming to an ending, but single-word translations will remain. Birthday reminder notifications in Routines are disappearing, but you can still ask the Assistant to set birthday reminders. Family Bell announcements, daily updates like weather notifications, and Assistant functions on car accessories using Bluetooth or AUX are also on the chopping block.

Google did not make it known if these features are going to be gone permanently or temporarily.

The removal of these features will likely disrupt how people use their devices, especially those who rely on Assistant for everyday tasks. Gemini is expected to offer more sophisticated AI interactions, but adjusting to the new system will take time. Some tasks that were once seamless may now require extra steps.

This shift reflects a larger trend in the tech industry, where companies like Amazon and Apple are also racing to build more advanced AI platforms. Google's decision highlights its intent to stay competitive by focusing on deeper AI integration and enhanced functionality.

While the loss of familiar features may frustrate users, the potential of Gemini could make up for it in the long run. As Gemini evolves, users can expect more intelligent and personalized AI experiences. The transition might feel inconvenient now, but it could pave the way for a smarter and more efficient future.