Set Gemini as Default Assistant on Pixel & Switch Back

Updated 5 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

This guide walks you through setting Google’s Gemini app as your default digital assistant on a Pixel phone, replacing the traditional Google Assistant. You’ll also learn how to switch back to the classic Assistant whenever you prefer. The process takes only a few minutes and requires no technical expertise.

What You’ll Need

A Pixel phone running Android 12 or later (most recent Pixel models are compatible).
The Gemini app installed from the Google Play Store. If you don’t have it, download it first.
A Google account signed in on the device.

Step-by-Step

Open the Gemini app. Locate the Gemini icon on your home screen or app drawer and tap it to launch.
Access settings. Tap your profile picture (top right corner) and select Settings from the menu.
Choose the assistant option. Scroll down and tap Google Assistant.
Select your default. You’ll see two options: Gemini and Google Assistant. Tap the radio button next to Gemini.
Confirm the change. A confirmation dialog appears. Read the note about Gemini replacing the Assistant for certain actions, then tap Confirm.
Test it. Press and hold the power button or say “Hey Google” to see if Gemini opens. If it does, the setup is complete.

To switch back to Google Assistant: Repeat steps 1â€“3, but this time select Google Assistant instead of Gemini, and confirm the change. The classic Assistant will immediately resume as your default.

Common Mistakes

Not updating the app: An outdated Gemini app may not show the Assistant settings. Ensure you have the latest version from the Play Store.
Choosing the wrong option: Some users tap “Default apps” in the system settings instead of using the Gemini app’s own settings. Always go through the Gemini app’s settings for this specific change.
Forgetting to confirm: Selecting Gemini without tapping Confirm in the dialog won’t apply the change.
Using a non-Pixel device: This method is specific to Pixel phones. Other Android devices may have different steps.

Tips

Use the power button gesture: After setting Gemini as default, pressing and holding the power button will launch Gemini instead of the Assistant.
Voice activation: Saying “Hey Google” will also trigger Gemini when it’s set as the default assistant.
Keep both available: You can still access Google Assistant by opening the Assistant app directly or by using the Gemini app’s settings to switch back temporarily.
Check for updates: Google frequently updates Gemini and the Assistant integration. Keep both apps updated to avoid unexpected behavior.
Understand limitations: Gemini may not support every Assistant feature yet (e.g., some smart home routines). If you rely on those, consider staying with the Assistant.

Troubleshooting

Gemini doesn’t appear as an option in settings:

Make sure the Gemini app is installed and opened at least once.
Update the app to the latest version.
Restart your phone.

The change doesn’t stick after a restart:

Recheck the settings in the Gemini app. Sometimes a system update resets the default.
If the problem persists, uninstall and reinstall the Gemini app, then repeat the steps.

“Hey Google” still opens the old Assistant:

Ensure you selected Gemini and confirmed it.
Check if your device has multiple user profiles; the change applies per profile.
Clear the Google app’s cache: Go to Settings > Apps > Google > Storage > Clear Cache, then retry.

Gemini doesn’t respond to the power button gesture:

Go to Settings > System > Gestures > Power button and ensure “Hold for assistant” is enabled.
If it still fails, toggle the option off and on.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my Google Assistant features if I switch to Gemini?
Gemini is designed to replace the Assistant, but some features (like certain smart home controls) may not be fully supported yet. You can switch back anytime.

Can I use both Gemini and Google Assistant simultaneously?
No, only one can be the default assistant at a time. However, you can manually open the other app to use it.

Does this work on older Pixel models?
Yes, as long as the device runs Android 12 or later and supports the Gemini app (most Pixels from Pixel 5 onward do).

Will switching back to Google Assistant delete any Gemini data?
No, your Gemini conversations and settings remain intact. Switching back just changes which assistant responds to gestures and voice.

Why don’t I see the “Google Assistant” option in Gemini settings?
This option appears only if the Gemini app is fully updated and your device is compatible. If missing, try clearing the app’s cache or reinstalling.

Is this the same as setting a default app in Android settings?
No, this is a separate setting specific to the assistant. The system-level default app setting for “Assistant” may also need to be set to Gemini for full integration.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.