The Rise of Gemini: What it Means for Google Assistant Users in India

The digital landscape for smartphone users in India is on the cusp of a significant transformation. Google Assistant’s familiar voice and helpful presence, a staple for millions nationwide, is preparing to evolve. Taking its place is Gemini, Google’s most advanced artificial intelligence model to date, promising a more intuitive, versatile, and powerful assistant experience. This transition signifies a major leap forward in how Indian users interact with AI on their mobile devices, marking a new era of digital assistance.

Gemini represents a fundamental shift in Google’s approach to AI. It is not merely an upgrade but a new family of AI models engineered for what Google describes as the “agentic AI age”. This means Gemini is designed to be more proactive, capable of understanding the world around the user, thinking several steps ahead, and even taking actions on their behalf, all with user supervision. Unlike its predecessors, Gemini was conceived from the outset with multimodality in mind. This inherent ability to process and reason across different types of information – including text, images, audio, video, and code – sets it apart. This allows for interactions that feel far more natural and intuitive than traditional voice commands alone.

According to Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, the evolution from earlier AI models to Gemini is moving beyond simply organizing and understanding information to making it significantly more helpful. The ambition is to create a “universal assistant,” one with a deeper comprehension of the user’s context and can anticipate their needs more effectively. Key advancements like the capacity for native image and audio output and the ability to utilize tools directly are paving the way for a new generation of AI agents that bring this vision closer to reality. Gemini 2.0 Flash, in particular, has been highlighted as a high-performing model designed for speed and efficiency, making it a crucial component in delivering a seamless user experience. The underlying technology signifies a substantial enhancement in the capabilities available to Google Assistant users in India.

For a country as linguistically diverse as India, the ability to interact with technology in one’s own language is paramount. Recognizing this, the Gemini app in India offers extensive multilingual support, catering to a broad spectrum of users. Beyond English, the app supports nine prominent Indian languages: Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. This commitment to local language accessibility is a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and making advanced AI technology available to a more substantial segment of the Indian population. The fact that users can type, speak, or even use images to communicate with Gemini in these languages underscores its potential to become a genuinely inclusive tool.

From Voice to Vision

This focus on language aligns perfectly with the growing trend of voice technology adoption in India. Research indicates that voice is increasingly becoming the preferred method for Indians to search online and navigate platforms like YouTube. For many, especially those more comfortable in their local languages, voice offers a more natural and intuitive way to interact with technology than typing in English. The statistics are compelling: a significant percentage of new internet users in India prefer consuming content in their mother tongue, and a substantial number already engage with voice assistants on their smartphones. This preference highlights a unique opportunity for AI assistants like Gemini, which are equipped to handle complex queries and conversations in multiple Indian languages, making technology more accessible and user-friendly.

Gemini Across Devices

The transition from Google Assistant to Gemini on mobile devices in India is slated to occur progressively over the coming months, with the complete replacement of the classic Google Assistant expected later in 2025. Users relying on Google Assistant will receive an in-app prompt when their device is ready for the upgrade. Gemini will seamlessly become the primary digital assistant for most modern Android smartphones that meet the system requirements. However, it is essential to note that users with older devices, specifically those running Android 9 or earlier or with less than 2 GB of RAM, will continue to have access to the existing Google Assistant experience. This ensures that a significant portion of users will still have a functional assistant, even if they cannot utilize the advanced features of Gemini.

The Future of AI in India

The upgrade to Gemini will extend beyond smartphones. Google has announced plans to bring the Gemini experience to tablets, cars, and connected devices like headphones and smartwatches. Furthermore, a new Gemini-powered expertise is also being developed for home devices such as smart speakers, displays, and TVs. This widespread integration indicates a future where Gemini will be a consistent and unified AI presence across various aspects of a user’s digital life.

While the arrival of Gemini promises a host of new capabilities, it’s natural for users to wonder about the fate of their familiar Google Assistant features. The good news is that many popular voice functionalities will be available through the Gemini app, such as setting timers, making calls, and creating reminders. However, as Gemini is a new and evolving platform, some features users have come to rely on in Google Assistant might not be immediately available. For instance, as of March 2025, certain functionalities were still being integrated into Gemini. Features like controlling media playback and managing routines, which are deeply ingrained in the Google Assistant experience for many, might not be present in the initial rollout of the Gemini app. Similarly, support for some media service providers, the Interpreter mode for real-time translation, and third-party music providers might be temporarily absent. Users should therefore be prepared for a slightly different initial experience as Gemini continues to develop and incorporate more of the functionalities they are accustomed to.

Gemini brings enhanced capabilities that promise to benefit users in India. It can assist with various tasks, from writing and brainstorming to learning new skills and summarizing information. Generating images on demand opens up new avenues for creative expression and communication. Users can interact with Gemini more versatilely, utilizing text, voice, and visual inputs through their phone’s camera. A significant convenience for Android users is the integration of Gemini directly into the operating system, allowing for contextual help simply by saying “Hey Google”. Gemini’s integration with Google Maps and Google Flights makes planning trips and managing travel easier.

Furthermore, Gemini has the potential to offer a more personalized experience. With user permission, it can tailor its responses based on their past search activity. Over time, this personalization will extend to other Google services like Photos and YouTube, allowing Gemini to provide even more relevant and helpful assistance. For users who require even more advanced capabilities, Gemini Advanced offers features like Deep Research for in-depth information gathering, a significantly larger context window for processing vast amounts of data, and tools for analyzing data and code.

Specifically for India, the Gemini app’s support for nine Indian languages is a standout feature. This allows users to use voice commands in their preferred regional language to engage with the AI, breaking down language barriers and making the technology more accessible. Additionally, Gemini has been integrated into Google Messages in India (initially in English), providing a convenient way to draft messages, brainstorm ideas, and plan events without leaving the messaging app. This integration highlights Google’s commitment to making Gemini a practical and valuable tool for everyday communication in the Indian context.

Getting started with Gemini on an Android device in India is straightforward. The primary method is downloading the official Gemini app from the Google Play Store. In some cases, users might receive a direct notification from the existing Google Assistant prompting them to upgrade to Gemini. To make Gemini the default assistant on their device, users typically need to navigate to their phone’s Settings, Apps, Default apps, and finally to Digital assistant app. Here, they should ensure that Google is selected as the default and follow any on-screen instructions to complete the switch to Gemini.

Activating Gemini can be done in several ways. If the “Hey Google” voice command is enabled, users can say this phrase to bring up Gemini. Alternatively, Gemini can often be activated depending on the device by pressing and holding the power button or swiping up from a corner of the screen. Once activated, users can interact with Gemini through voice commands, by typing their queries, or by utilizing the image-sharing feature to ask questions about photos.

The setup process is generally consistent across modern Android versions. However, users on older devices running Android 9 or below will not have the option to upgrade to Gemini and will continue using the standard Google Assistant.

While both Gemini and Google Assistant serve as digital assistants, there are key distinctions that Indian users should be aware of. Gemini is underpinned by more advanced and intricate language models, enabling it to comprehend and respond to language with greater nuance and complexity. This allows for interactions that go beyond simple question-and-answer formats, with Gemini capable of engaging in more detailed conversations and offering predictions and suggestions that feel more human-like. In contrast, Google Assistant is designed for speed and simplicity, providing quick responses to straightforward voice commands and basic queries with minimal delay.

Gemini’s capabilities extend to more complex tasks such as analyzing data, summarizing lengthy documents, and participating in multifaceted conversations, positioning it more as a creative and research partner. While Google Assistant is a free and widely accessible tool, some of Gemini’s more advanced features, mainly through Gemini Advanced, are offered as part of a subscription plan, precisely the Google One AI Premium plan. It’s also important to note that some familiar features from Google Assistant, including media control, routine management, and the Interpreter mode, might not be available in the initial versions of Gemini.

Multilingual AI for India

For Indian users, the enhanced multilingual support in Gemini represents a significant advantage. The ability to interact with the assistant in nine Indian languages and English makes it a far more inclusive tool for a diverse population. Furthermore, Gemini’s capacity to process and understand various input formats, such as text, voice, and images, can be particularly beneficial in a country with varying literacy levels and diverse communication preferences. However, potential limitations for Indian users might include the initial absence of some well-used Google Assistant features. Moreover, the accuracy of Gemini’s responses, especially in regional languages and across complex topics, will be critical in its widespread adoption and acceptance in India.

The increasing popularity of voice assistants in India is undeniable, and Gemini’s arrival aligns perfectly with this trend. The preference among new internet users for consuming content in their local languages is a major driver behind the growing adoption of voice technology. Notably, Hindi ranks as the second most commonly used language with Google Assistant globally, underscoring the importance of regional language support in the Indian market. A significant majority of smartphone users in India already engage with voice assistants, indicating a strong familiarity and comfort level with this mode of interaction. For many multilingual Indians, using voice commands is more natural and often faster than typing.

Given this landscape, Gemini’s enhanced natural language processing capabilities and support for multiple Indian languages position it as a strong contender to further accelerate the adoption of voice technology in India. Its ability to handle more intricate and conversational queries through voice commands can lead to a more seamless and intuitive user experience, potentially encouraging even wider adoption among those who have previously hesitated to use voice assistants.

As with any AI assistant, users in India may have concerns regarding Gemini’s privacy and accuracy. Google has emphasized its commitment to data privacy, stating that user data, prompts, and generated responses are not used to train Gemini models outside the user’s domain without explicit permission, nor are they sold or used for targeted advertising. Users retain control over their data, and Gemini has enterprise-grade security measures. Furthermore, Gemini has obtained various certifications related to privacy and security.

Regarding accuracy, it’s essential to acknowledge that AI models like Gemini can sometimes make mistakes, and users are advised to exercise caution and double-check critical information. Google provides tools, such as the “Google button,” to help users verify the information provided by Gemini. In past instances, Gemini provided inaccurate or biased responses, leading to temporary suspensions of certain features. Google has publicly acknowledged these shortcomings and is actively working to improve the platform.

For users in India, it is recommended to review Google’s privacy policies for Gemini to understand how their data is handled. Critically evaluating the information provided by Gemini, especially for important decisions, is always advisable. Utilizing the fact-checking tools offered by Google can also help verify the accuracy of responses. Finally, providing feedback to Google about Gemini’s performance can contribute to improving its accuracy and reliability.

The rise of Gemini holds significant implications for the broader technology ecosystem in India. Its arrival has the potential to catalyze the adoption of AI-powered services and applications across various sectors, contributing to innovation and economic growth. Developers and businesses can leverage Gemini’s advanced capabilities to create novel solutions tailored for the Indian market.

Gemini in Healthcare

In crucial sectors like healthcare, AI assistants such as Gemini can play a vital role in addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals by automating routine tasks, assisting with patient triaging, and offering real-time support to medical staff. The potential for personalized learning experiences in education through AI like Gemini could also transform how students learn and educators teach. Moreover, the strong emphasis on multilingual support within Gemini can significantly enhance digital inclusion and accessibility for a more significant segment of the Indian population, breaking down language barriers that have historically limited technological access.

However, the widespread adoption and effective utilization of Gemini in India will also require addressing existing challenges. These include improving digital literacy across different demographics, building a robust and reliable data infrastructure, and carefully considering the ethical implications of deploying advanced AI technologies. Despite these challenges, the potential for AI, with Gemini at the forefront, to contribute significantly to India’s GDP and drive economic development through innovation is substantial.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the arrival of Gemini in India marks a significant step forward in the evolution of digital assistance. As the successor to Google Assistant, it promises a more intelligent, versatile, and multilingual experience tailored to the needs of Indian users. With its enhanced capabilities, particularly in understanding and processing local languages, Gemini has the potential to become an invaluable tool for everyday tasks, learning, and creativity. While the transition will take time and some familiar features might initially be absent, the long-term benefits of a more robust and context-aware AI assistant are substantial. Indian users are encouraged to download the Gemini app and explore its new features, embracing the next generation of AI assistance at their fingertips.