How to Keep Using Google Assistant on Android

AI

📝 Key Points of This Article

• Google has released several steps for Android users who prefer to stick with the classic “Google Assistant” instead of the new AI-powered “Gemini,” helping them keep the former as their default digital assistant.
• Setting “Google Assistant” as your default on Android requires more than just a menu change; it involves multiple steps, such as disabling the “Gemini” shortcut that triggers when long-pressing the power button.
• Please note that these are temporary measures, as Google eventually plans to fully transition “Google Assistant” over to “Gemini.”

On Friday, April 17, 2026, Google released a guide for Android users who prefer to continue using the classic “Google Assistant” rather than the AI-powered “Gemini,” outlining the steps to keep the former as their default digital assistant.

To set “Google Assistant” as the primary digital assistant on your Android device, you must do more than simply select it in the digital assistant settings; it requires several additional steps, such as disabling the shortcut that launches “Gemini” when you long-press the power button. However, keep in mind that Google Assistant will eventually be fully replaced by Gemini, so these are only temporary workarounds.

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Changing the Default Digital Assistant

The most fundamental step is changing your Android device’s default digital assistant to “Google Assistant.”

You can find the relevant settings by searching for “Default apps” or “Digital assistant app” in the Android settings search bar, then selecting “Google Assistant” as your default.

Customizing the Power Button Shortcut

Many Android devices are configured with a shortcut where long-pressing the power button triggers the Google AI “Gemini.”

You can prevent “Gemini” from launching by disabling this shortcut, remapping it to trigger “Google Assistant,” or changing it to open the power menu instead. Search for “Power button” or “Gestures” in your Android settings to find the relevant configuration and customize it to your preference.

Reviewing “OK Google” and Lock Screen Settings

In some cases, the “OK Google” or “Hey Google” voice commands might inadvertently trigger “Gemini.”

Therefore, it is also effective to disable voice activation for “Gemini” via these commands. You can also choose to disable “Gemini” voice activation specifically while your Android device’s screen is locked.

Source：Google