Google to replace free to use Assistant with paid Gemini AI chatbot
Google has confirmed in a blog post that its long-standing Google Assistant will be phased out later this year, making way for Gemini as the default AI assistant on Android devices. The transition marks a significant shift in Google’s AI strategy, as one of the Gemini versions follows a subscription-based model, unlike the free-to-use Assistant. Google now claims that Gemini represents the next leap in AI-powered interactions.
Despite the company’s framing of Gemini as an improvement over Assistant, the introduction of a paid tier raises concerns among the users worldwide. The transition from Assistant to Gemini will take place in coming months. Google will upgrade smartphones, tablets, cars, watches, and other accessories connected to Gemini. Google also has plans to integrate Gemini into home devices, including speakers, displays, and TVs.