Google replaced Google Assistant with Gemini on most Android phones, with the switch completing in September 2026. So turning off the assistant now mostly means turning off Gemini’s Hey Google and long-press activation, or choosing no assistant at all.
Quick Answer
Open Settings, Apps, Default apps, Digital assistant app and set Default digital assistant app to None. To stop only the voice trigger, turn off Hey Google in the assistant app’s settings.
How to Turn Off the Assistant on Android
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Apps, then Default apps (on some phones, search Settings for Digital assistant).
- Tap Digital assistant app.
- Tap Default digital assistant app and choose None.
- To keep the assistant but stop voice activation, open the Gemini app, tap your profile picture, Settings, then Hey Google and Voice Match, and turn it off.
- Restart the phone if the power button still launches the assistant, and check the side button settings.
Options
| Goal | Setting |
|---|---|
| No assistant at all | Digital assistant app, None |
| No voice activation | Hey Google and Voice Match off |
| Stop power-button launch | Settings, System, Gestures, Press and hold power button |
| Remove from lock screen | Assistant settings, lock screen options |
Troubleshooting
- Menus differ: Samsung and other brands name these settings differently. Use the search bar in Settings.
- Assistant still opens: a home-screen widget or button shortcut may call it directly; remove it.
- Older phones: some devices without Gemini support may keep the older assistant for a time.
- Related: using Google Lens and moving Nest accounts to Google.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Google Assistant gone?
On most Android phones, yes. Google said it would be replaced by Gemini from September 4, 2026.
Does turning it off delete my data?
No. Manage activity separately in your Google Account.
Can I turn it back on?
Yes. Choose the assistant again in Default apps.
What about Google Home speakers?
Speakers and displays follow a separate schedule and settings.
Summary
- Open Settings, Apps.
- Open Default apps.
- Tap Digital assistant app.
- Choose None.
- Or turn off Hey Google only.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.