Google will replace its existing voice assistant, Google Assistant, with the new AI platform Gemini. Gemini is set to be introduced in existing Google Home and Nest devices starting October 2025. Gemini has already been available as a mobile app for Android since March 2025, gradually replacing the classic Google Assistant.
The Google Assistant has so far been available on a wide range of devices. These included Android smartphones and tablets, smart displays such as the Nest Hub, smart speakers like Nest Audio or Nest Mini, Google TV and compatible TVs, as well as various wearables, cars, and headphones. Through these devices, users could perform tasks via voice commands, such as controlling smart home devices, playing music, setting reminders, or retrieving information.
Gemini: New Features and Gradual Rollout
With Gemini, an AI-powered platform takes over the previous functions of Google Assistant. The new solution offers improved speech comprehension and contextual interactions, supports complex tasks such as cooking or troubleshooting, and provides personalized recommendations. In addition, the integration with Google Workspace allows users to manage calendar events, tasks, and notes directly through the assistant.
The transition is gradual: users of existing Google Home and Nest devices can set Gemini as their default assistant starting in October 2025, while still having the option to continue using Google Assistant. On mobile Android devices, Gemini already replaces the classic app. Some advanced features are provided through “Gemini Live”; Google has not yet published specific pricing or detailed information.
Competition with Amazon Alexa+
With the launch of Gemini, Google enters into direct competition with Amazon, whose voice assistant Alexa has also received an AI-based upgrade. In February 2025, Amazon introduced “Alexa+”, a new version of its assistant based on the Claude AI model from Anthropic. Alexa+ offers enhanced capabilities such as contextual conversations, personalized recommendations, and the ability to handle complex tasks. The integration of Claude aims to enhance Alexa’s performance.
Both companies pursue different approaches: Google focuses on integrating Gemini into existing smart home devices and offers both free and paid features. Amazon, on the other hand, provides Alexa+ free for Prime members, while non-members must pay a monthly fee. Competition between the two platforms is expected to intensify in the coming months as both companies continue to develop their AI assistants and introduce new features.
Availability in Different Countries
Google Gemini is already available in over 230 countries and regions, including Germany and other European countries. It can be used in more than 40 languages, including German, English, French, and Spanish. Availability may vary by region, and some features may only be accessible in certain countries or to specific user groups. More information is available on the official Google support page.
Amazon Alexa+ was introduced in February 2025 and is currently available in the USA. Usage requires the device to be set to “English (United States)”. Amazon plans to make Alexa+ available in other countries in the future, but specific dates have not yet been announced. More information can be found on the official Amazon support page.
Outlook
With Gemini, Google is focusing on an AI-powered evolution of its voice assistant, offering users a personalized and context-aware interaction with their smart home and mobile devices. The gradual rollout aims to ensure a smooth transition, while some additional features may be offered as paid options in the future.
User Review
( votes)
You may also like
