Google Gemini replaces Assistant on Home devices starting in October

Google has announced that Gemini will replace Google Assistant on Google Home devices starting October 1, 2025, marking the end of an era for the company’s original voice assistant. The integration promises more natural conversations through Gemini Live and enhanced automation capabilities, though questions remain about which features will require paid subscriptions.

What you should know: Google first announced Gemini integration for smart home devices at its I/O event in May, but has now set a firm launch date.

• Users can sign up for updates through a link Google posted on X to know when Gemini becomes available on their devices.
• The transition represents a complete replacement of Google Assistant rather than a complementary addition.

Key capabilities: Gemini will bring several advanced features to Google Nest devices that go beyond current Assistant functionality.

• The AI can analyze Google Home devices to offer better automation suggestions and help optimize smart home setups.
• Voice commands will become more intuitive, allowing users to set up devices with simple spoken instructions.
• Gemini Live integration will enable more natural, free-flowing conversations that feel less robotic than current interactions.

The big picture: This move reflects Google’s broader strategy to phase out Google Assistant in favor of its more advanced AI technology.

• Google previously had to apologize for Google Assistant’s “lackluster performance,” making this transition particularly significant for user experience.
• The change positions Google to compete more effectively in the AI-powered smart home market against rivals like Amazon’s Alexa.

What remains unclear: Google hasn’t detailed the pricing structure for Gemini’s premium features on home devices.

• While the company has confirmed plans for a paid tier, specific features that will be locked behind a paywall haven’t been announced.
• This uncertainty leaves users wondering whether basic smart home functionality will remain free or require subscriptions.

Why this matters: The transition represents Google’s acknowledgment that its original voice assistant technology has fallen behind user expectations and competitive alternatives.

• For smart home enthusiasts, the upgrade could finally deliver the seamless, intelligent automation that Google Assistant promised but struggled to provide.
• However, some users who experienced Google’s previous AI disappointments may view this as “too little too late” for the company’s smart home ecosystem.