Google Pushes Gemini Across Devices in September, Offering 5 Ways to Restore Assistant-Like Use
Updated
Updated · Lifehacker · Aug 7
Google Pushes Gemini Across Devices in September, Offering 5 Ways to Restore Assistant-Like Use
3 articles · Updated · Lifehacker · Aug 7
Summary
September will bring Gemini as the default assistant on Google-powered phones, tablets and watches, replacing Google Assistant across much of the Android ecosystem.
5 setup changes can make Gemini behave more like Assistant: set it as the default everywhere, trim Connected Apps, add custom Instructions, use Scheduled Actions and pick the fastest model.
Instructions for Gemini can recreate shorthand commands such as “good night” for lights, while Connected Apps settings let users keep essentials like Google Home and Utilities but disable extra personalization.
Scheduled Actions can stand in for some Assistant routines, though Google says they may be prepared up to 1 hour in advance, making Google Home automations better for simple, precise tasks.
Gemini 3.5 Flash-Lite and disabling Extended thinking can speed responses, addressing one of the biggest complaints about the shift from Assistant.