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How to Use Gemini on Phone Without Switching to Google Assistant

Google is rolling out Gemini with tons of lucrative features be it – Circle to Search, Magic Eraser, Gemini Live and so on. However, as Google states that “Gemini doesn’t support all features from Google Assistant,” many users are reluctant to switch to Gemini just for its features. Here’s how you can use Gemini on your phone without switching to Google Assistant.

How to use Gemini Without Switching to Google Assistant

Gemini or Google Assistant: Which Weighs Heavier?

Google Assistant has been THE staple Assistant of Android devices for years, offering voice commands, smart home control, and quick access to information. From exceling at tasks like setting timers, alarms, and reminders, as well as controlling media playback and smart home devices, Google Assistant is deeply integrated with Google’s ecosystem. This makes it an efficient digital assistant for users already invested in Google services.

Gemini, on the other hand, represents Google’s new push into more advanced AI capabilities. Offering improved natural language understanding, multimodal interactions (text, voice, and images), and more complex reasoning abilities, Gemini brings exciting new features to the table.

However, it currently lacks some of Google Assistant’s core functionalities. Users have reported issues with basic tasks like setting timers or controlling smart home devices through Gemini. Additionally, Gemini can be slower to respond compared to Google Assistant, which may frustrate users accustomed to quick interactions.


Using Gemini Without Switching From Google Assistant

Many users are hesitant to fully switch to Gemini due to its current limitations. Fortunately, there are ways to explore Gemini’s capabilities without completely abandoning Google Assistant. If you’re curious about making the switch, you can learn how to switch to Google Assistant from Gemini on Android in our detailed guide.

Method 1: Using Gemini With Google Assistant

When you launch the Gemini app, you are immediately prompted to choose between sticking to Google Assistant or switching to Gemini. And hoping to test or use Gemini features while sticking with Assistant quickly fails because as soon as you tap on “Not now,” the app shuts down.

Gemini shuts down if you select "Not Now"

1. To fix this, proceed and click on “Switch” to proceed in the Gemini app.

Proceed by selecting Switch in Gemini App

2. Next, select your profile from top-right corner and tap on “Settings.”

Select profile, tap on settings in Gemini app

3. Scroll down to locate “Google Assistant features in Gemini” and open it.

Use Google Assistant features in Gemini app

4. Toggle to enable Google Assistant features in Gemini and you’re good to go.

Enable Google Assistant features in Gemini

5. You can further enable Google Assistant on lock screen by enabling it from the Gemini app settings.

Google Assistant features in lock screen through Gemini

Note:- In the settings you also get to see an option to switch over from Gemini to Google Assistant, however, doing the same will repeat the Gemini app to shut down.

Method 2: Using Gemini From Desktop

Another way to use Gemini features without changing your default digital assistant from Google Assitant to Gemini, is using Gemini on your Desktop (or Desktop site mode on phone). For this simply, go to Gemini website and proceed using it as per your requirement.

FAQs

Q. Why Can’t I Use Gemini app Without Switching From Google Assistant to Gemini Assistant?

The Gemini app force shuts down as soon as “Not now” is selected for switching from Google Assitant. While there is no response from Google on this, you can continue using all of Google Assistant’s features with Gemini by following the steps in the guide above.

Q. Will Gemini Eventually Replace Google Assistant Completely?

While Google is investing heavily in Gemini, there are no immediate plans to phase out Google Assistant entirely. For now, both assistants will coexist, with Gemini gradually gaining more Assistant-like features.

Q. Can I Use Gemini on Devices Other Than My Phone?

No. Currently, Gemini is primarily available on Android phones and tablets. Google Assistant remains the default on other devices like smart speakers, displays, and wearables.

Wrapping Up

In this article, we learnt how you can use Gemini without losing Google Assistant features in two ways. For more such guides and tips, stay tuned to GadgetsToUse and check out the following reads.

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Abhijay Singh Rawat

Abhijay Singh Rawat

Abhijay is the Editor at GadgetsToUse, who loves to follow up on the latest tech trends and trek up on hills of Uttarakhand. In his spare time, he presumes his role as a gamer and sets out to fulfil his call of duty.View Author posts