Google’s Gemini App Lacks Crucial Voice Assistant Features, Could Be Future Replacement for Google Assistant
Google recently introduced its new Gemini app as an alternative to its popular voice assistant, Google Assistant. However, despite Google’s commitment to Gemini, the AI-powered helper lacks essential voice assistant functionalities. Users are now faced with the dilemma of choosing between Gemini and Assistant due to this limitation.
Although Gemini does not have native support for setting reminders, users can use the Assistant extension to achieve this. The recent addition of a useful Assistant feature allows Gemini to set reminders on Android through the Google Assistant extension, which creates reminders in Google Tasks.
While this implementation is a workaround, it proves that Gemini has the potential to incorporate other Assistant-based tasks. Some of the key features missing in Gemini include media playback queries and Google Assistant routines.
It seems inevitable that Gemini will eventually gain more voice assistant functionality. This development creates a complex situation for both Gemini and Assistant, particularly as Google tests different features in various regions, resulting in different user experiences.
The rollout of reminder capabilities in Gemini is not yet available to all Android users, suggesting that it is being done gradually on the server side. Reports indicate that in certain regions, Gemini is completely replacing the Assistant app for some users, either after fresh installs or app updates.
These changes reflect Google’s dedication to rapid improvement and responsiveness to user feedback, as evidenced by the numerous updates and feature additions that have already been implemented.
Analyst comment
Neutral news.
As an analyst, it is likely that the market will see increased competition between Google Gemini and Google Assistant. The lack of crucial voice assistant features in Gemini could initially deter some users, but the potential for future improvements and integration of Assistant-based tasks may attract more users in the long run. The gradual rollout of reminder capabilities suggests that Google is actively working on enhancing the Gemini app, which reflects their commitment to improving user experience.
