Google Assistant Undergoing Multiple Feature Reductions
Google Assistant is in the process of undergoing modifications, with the removal of 17 features scheduled from January 26 to improve service quality and reliability. Users attempting to access these features after the removal date will receive notifications, and the majority of them will be completely eliminated by February 26.
Removed features encompass various functionalities, such as controlling audiobooks on Google Play Books, managing cookbooks, setting media-related alarms, and overseeing stopwatch activities on Smart Displays and Speakers. Moreover, functionalities like voice calling devices, broadcasting to Google Family Groups, sending emails, video or audio messages, and requesting contact information are no longer supported. Additional discontinued features include the App Launcher in Google Assistant driving mode on Google Maps for messages and calls, voice control for activities on Fitbit Sense and Versa 3 devices, displaying caller ID for calls from speakers and Smart Displays using Duo, voice-checking personal travel itineraries, and performing voice actions like sending payments or making reservations.
Despite these removals, Google is refining the Google app by introducing search responses when tapping the microphone icon. However, the microphone icon will no longer manage smart home devices or facilitate message sending. Notably, the Pixel Search bar now activates Voice Search instead of Assistant.
To sum up, Google Assistant is optimizing its features to enhance overall service quality, with the removal of 17 features by January 26, and the majority will be completely phased out by February 26. These changes affect diverse functions, such as audiobook and cookbook management, alarm settings, voice calling, and message sending. Noteworthy is Google’s effort to improve the functionality of the Google app, enabling search responses through the microphone icon, albeit with limitations on its control over smart home devices and messaging.
