Verdict: You can replace the legacy Google Assistant with the new Gemini AI on almost any Android phone by downloading the official Google Gemini app from the Play Store and setting it as your default digital assistant.
For the past decade, long-pressing the power button or saying “Hey Google” has summoned the standard Google Assistant. While great at setting timers and checking the weather, it lacks true conversational intelligence. In 2026, Google has fully transitioned its focus to Gemini, its advanced AI model that can write emails, analyze photos, and engage in complex, multi-turn conversations.
While Gemini is installed natively on Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 devices, you don’t need a Pixel to use it. Here is how to upgrade your Samsung, Motorola, or OnePlus phone to Gemini.
Step 1: Download the App
1. Open the Google Play Store.
2. Search for and download the official Google Gemini app. (Ensure the developer is listed as Google LLC).
3. Note: Your phone must be running Android 12 or newer, and have at least 4GB of RAM to run the overlay.
Step 2: Set Gemini as the Default Assistant
1. Open the newly installed Gemini app.
2. You will be greeted by a splash screen asking you to “Switch to Gemini.” Tap Get Started.
3. The app will warn you that Gemini will replace Google Assistant as your primary digital helper. Accept the terms.
4. Your phone will automatically route all standard Assistant triggers to Gemini.
How to Use It
Now, whenever you say “Hey Google” or long-press your power button, the sleek glowing Gemini overlay will pop up from the bottom of your screen.
Why is it better?
– Screen Awareness: If you have a long article open in Chrome, summon Gemini and tap “Summarize this screen.” It will instantly read the page and give you a bulleted summary.
– Image Analysis: You can snap a photo of the ingredients in your fridge, upload it to the Gemini chat box, and ask, “What dinner can I make with this?” It will analyze the image and generate a recipe.
How to Switch Back to Legacy Assistant
Gemini is incredibly smart, but it can sometimes be slower at basic smart home commands (like turning off the lights) than the old Assistant. If you try Gemini and hate it, switching back is easy.
1. Open the Gemini app.
2. Tap your profile picture in the top right corner and select Settings.
3. Tap Digital assistants from Google.
4. Toggle the selection back from Gemini to Google Assistant.