Gemini is a total joke on Android as replacement of Google Assistant

Analyzing the Transition from Google Assistant to Gemini on Android Devices: An In-Depth Review

The shift from Google Assistant to Gemini on Android devices has sparked considerable discussion among users and tech enthusiasts alike. While innovation and adaptation are vital in technology, the implementation of Gemini as a replacement for Google Assistant (GA) has raised concerns regarding usability, efficiency, and overall user experience.

Performance and Responsiveness Challenges

One of the most prominent issues reported relates to the speed and responsiveness of Gemini compared to Google Assistant. Users have observed that tasks which previously took seconds with GA now require significantly longer with Gemini. This slowdown can be attributed to the underlying architecture of Gemini, which relies heavily on large language models (LLMs). While LLMs excel in generating nuanced responses, they tend to be slower in completing straightforward commands. As a result, simple operations such as creating calendar entries now often feel sluggish, with some users noting a performance degradation of three to five times relative to GA.

Accuracy and Result Quality

Another area of concern involves the accuracy and usefulness of responses from Gemini. For example, answering basic queries like locating nearby supermarkets or opening hours has become less reliable. Users have reported that Gemini sometimes presents incorrect results, often based on IP addresses rather than precise GPS data. This mismatch can lead to inaccurate directions or store information. Additionally, the interface for viewing such results is less intuitive; instead of clickable links that open directly in Google Maps, users are often required to manually select options like “use location service,” adding unnecessary steps and frustration.

Privacy and Permissions

The transition also affects privacy settings and permission requirements. Unlike GA, which operated effectively without extensive access rights, Gemini mandates a broader array of permissions, including access to search history and location data. Some users view this as an invasion of privacy, as giving these rights is necessary for Gemini to function correctly. This increased demand for permissions can be a deterrent for users concerned about data privacy and security.

Inconsistencies and Reliability of Responses

A particularly frustrating aspect of Gemini involves inconsistent and unreliable responses to simple questions. For instance, inquiries about the current time often yield erratic answers—sometimes providing the correct time and date, other times offering overly detailed or incorrect information, or ignoring user preferences such as language or format. In some cases, responses are in different languages despite communication in German, further reducing usability.

Additional Usability Issues

Beyond functional limitations, users have highlighted issues like the lack of feedback mechanisms during voice activation through Bluetooth headsets. Unlike