Google is preparing for a significant expansion of its Gemini AI assistant across the Android ecosystem, aiming to replace the traditional Google Assistant on a broader range of devices by the end of 2025. The announcement was made during Google’s Q1 2025 earnings call, where CEO Sundar Pichai confirmed that Gemini would soon be integrated into multiple device categories, including smartwatches, headphones, tablets, and vehicles running Android Auto.
Pichai stated that Gemini is already in the process of replacing Google Assistant on mobile phones and that this transition will soon extend to tablets and other connected devices, such as wearables and in-car systems. “We’re upgrading Google Assistant on mobile devices to Gemini, and later this year we’ll upgrade tablets, cars, and devices that connect to your phone, such as headphones and watches,” Pichai said during the call. While no exact release dates were shared, Pichai hinted that more information would be provided during Google’s annual developer event, Google I/O 2025, scheduled for next month.
The move to broaden Gemini’s reach marks a strategic shift for Google, as the company positions its AI assistant as a more advanced, context-aware solution capable of delivering natural, conversational interactions across various form factors. The decision aligns with previous reports indicating Google's intent to phase out the legacy Google Assistant entirely in favor of Gemini.
Early signs of this expansion were discovered earlier in the year by Android Authority. Code found in a Wear OS update suggested that Gemini integration for smartwatches is already underway. These updates hinted at the inclusion of “Gemini Live,” a feature that may enable real-time, dynamic interactions on wearable devices. Gemini is expected to support core functions similar to Google Assistant, such as wake word detection, but with improved conversational capabilities thanks to AI enhancements.
In addition to wearables, indications of Gemini's reach into the automotive space have surfaced. Some Android Auto updates have been spotted featuring the Gemini logo, suggesting that Google is working on AI-powered voice controls or contextual interaction features for in-car systems. These enhancements could allow drivers to engage in more fluid conversations with their vehicles, potentially improving both usability and safety while driving.
One aspect that remains unclear is how exactly the AI processing for Gemini will be handled on these new platforms. It’s uncertain whether smartwatches, headphones, and in-car systems will perform tasks locally or depend on cloud-based AI services via a connected Android smartphone. This detail could influence performance, latency, and data privacy implications, especially for on-the-go users.
As Google moves forward with its Gemini rollout, it aims to create a unified AI experience across its device ecosystem. This expansion could significantly reshape how users interact with Android devices, potentially making voice and AI-assisted interactions more seamless, intuitive, and contextually aware. All eyes will be on Google I/O 2025 for additional insights into features, device compatibility, and rollout schedules as the company pushes forward with its AI-first vision.