Google Assistant, a ubiquitous feature on all Android phones, provides a range of functionalities, some of which go unused by many users. In a recent blog post, Google announced the removal of certain underutilized features, aiming to enhance the overall user experience. The tech giant expressed its commitment to making Google Assistant more helpful by focusing on popular features and improving the underlying technology.
A total of 17 features will be eliminated from Google Assistant. These include the ability to play and control audiobooks on Google Play Books using voice commands, with the alternative option of casting audiobooks from mobile devices. Additionally, setting or using media alarms, music alarms, and radio alarms on Google Assistant-enabled devices will no longer be supported. Users are encouraged to create custom Routines or use standard alarms as alternatives.
Functions related to cookbook management, recipe transfers between devices, instructional recipe videos, and step-by-step recipes will be discontinued. Google recommends using the Assistant to search for recipes online and on YouTube. Managing a stopwatch on Smart Displays and Speakers will also be phased out, but users can still set timers and alarms.
Voice commands for calling a device or broadcasting messages to a Google Family Group, sending emails, video or audio messages, and rescheduling events in Google Calendar will no longer be supported. However, users can continue to make calls and send text messages.
Google Assistant’s App Launcher in driving mode on Google Maps will lose the ability to read and send messages, make calls, and control media using voice commands. Users are advised to utilize voice control on Google Maps in a similar manner. Similarly, voice control for activities on Fitbit Sense and Versa 3 devices will be discontinued, requiring users to use device buttons instead. Voice control for activities on Pixel Watches will remain unaffected.
Certain features like viewing sleep summaries will be limited to Google Smart Displays, while calls made from speakers and Smart Displays will no longer display caller IDs unless Duo is used. The ambient “Commute to Work” time estimates on Smart Displays will no longer be available, although users can still inquire about commute times and directions by voice.
Other features such as checking personal travel itineraries by voice, obtaining information about contacts, and executing specific actions through voice commands (e.g., sending a payment, making a reservation, or posting on social media) will also be deprecated. Users can still utilize Assistant to open installed apps. Overall, Google’s decision to streamline Google Assistant aims to refine and prioritize the user experience based on popular functionalities.