Google Assistant is losing 7 key features on Android and Nest devices

Late last week, amidst the buzz of Gemini’s impending takeover of Google Assistant on Android, Google quietly slipped in another announcement: the discontinuation of seven more Assistant features. This comes after the 18 feature removals announced at the start of 2024, signaling the clear shift in Google’s strategy away from Google Assistant and on to Gemini.

First up on the chopping block are voice-activated photo management features, like favoriting, sharing, and querying photo metadata. While these functions will remain accessible within the Google Photos app and on smart displays, the convenience of voice control is being stripped away.

Similarly, voice commands for adjusting photo frame and ambient screen settings are being phased out, relegating users to manual adjustments within the device settings.

Next to go will be Interpreter Mode, which transformed smart displays and speakers into real-time translation devices. While basic language translation will persist, the dedicated, conversational translation feature is being retired. Fortunately, the Google Translate app on mobile offers a robust alternative, albeit one that requires a more hands-on approach.

Birthday reminder notifications within Routines are also going away. Users can still set birthday reminders through direct voice commands, but the automated integration with Routines is being eliminated. The same goes for Family Bell announcements, which can now only be scheduled and accessed through custom Routines. Daily updates, like weather reports, are also shifting to the realm of custom Routines. Finally, Google Assistant support for car accessories connected via Bluetooth or AUX is being discontinued.

Google’s official statement emphasizes a focus on “quality and reliability,” suggesting that these removals are part of a broader effort to refine the now-outgoing Assistant experience. The truth is, as Gemini takes center stage, it’s clear that Google is reshaping its AI strategy, and moves are being made to keep the development focus on Gemini’s abilities, not Google Assistant’s. How this transition will play out in the next few months will definitely be interesting to watch.

VIA: 9to5 Google