Google forcibly replaces Assistant with Gemini, users report slow responses and lost features
Pyromethious · reddit · 2026-09-22
A Reddit user reports that a system update removed Google Assistant entirely, forcing Gemini with clear regressions:
- Noticeably slower voice responses, and Gemini leaves stale windows on screen after executing commands, consistent across voice and button triggers
- In Android Auto, a simple reminder request was refused with "Sorry, I can't do that yet", repeatedly
- Wired Android Auto / car stereos aren't covered by Google's allowance for older devices to keep Assistant
- Old routines pointing to "Open Assistant" must be redirected to "Open Gemini", and the mic still needs a manual tap to activate
The poster wants the old Assistant experience back (including its softer voice) but sees no good path.
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