Google has begun the process of fully removing the classic voice assistant from Android devices, redirecting users to the new Gemini app. This is reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing the official Gemini Apps Help documentation. The changes took effect on September 4, 2026, and affect not only the interface but also the rules for processing personal data, which now apply by default and require users to actively manage their settings.
Full Removal of Assistant and Migration to Gemini
Starting September 4, Google is progressively removing Assistant from Android-based smartphones, fully redirecting requests to the Gemini app. Importantly, this process is irreversible: once the migration is complete, it is no longer possible to return to the old assistant. At the same time as the assistant replacement, updated rules for processing personal information take effect, which the company considers part of the new user experience.
Action Saving Enabled by Default
For adult users, the "Action saving" feature in the Gemini app is enabled by default. This means the system automatically records all interaction logs. By default, the history is stored for 18 months, but users can change this period to 3 or 36 months or disable automatic deletion. Key point: some conversations are sent for review to moderator teams, which include both Google employees and external contractors. Before review, the data is disassociated from the user's account, but the fact of possible human review remains.
Storage Periods and Exceptions for Audio and Video
Disabling the action saving feature or manually clearing the history does not delete information instantly and completely. Even with saving disabled, Google retains conversations in the account for 72 hours for proper service operation and feedback processing. Copies of chats already sent for moderator review are stored on the company's servers for up to three years, and deleting history in the personal account does not affect these copies. A similar three-year period applies to "like/dislike" ratings and the associated conversations. An exception is made for voice and video recordings: authentic audio recordings, Gemini Live videos, and screen sharing are not used by default to improve Google's services, although their text transcripts fall under the general saving rules.
History Import and Order of Changing Settings
When migrating from the old assistant, Google may import up to 90 days of communication request history from the web search and apps history section into the Gemini action profile. Parameters can be changed directly in the Gemini app in the profile actions section or on the Google account management page. The company emphasizes the correct order of actions: first, action saving must be disabled, and only then should the existing history be cleared. It should be noted that disabling the feature deprives the app of memory of previous contexts, and some related services, such as Google Workspace, may become unavailable.
