A loyal consumer recently expressed curiosity regarding Google’s decision to replace Google Assistant with Gemini, the new AI model, on Pixel phones. The user queried the need to continue using “Hey Google” as the activation hotword, despite the shift to Gemini. The question arises as even after replacing Google Assistant with Gemini, the hotword remains the same, causing some confusion among users.
Exploring the “Hey Gemini” Hotword Debate
The suggestion of a hotword change to “Hey Gemini” appears to be a reasonable request as it is more syllable-friendly in comparison to its predecessor. Even though it has more syllables (four) than “Hey Google” (three), users may find it easier to pronounce, eliminating the tongue-twister effect some experience with Google. This alteration could also minimize the cognitive dissonance created when activating Gemini but having to say “Hey Google.”
Understanding the Current Assistant Activation
For clarity, if you have set Gemini as your assistant on your Pixel, saying “Hey Google” will activate Gemini. Similarly, if you have the Google Assistant set, using the same hotword will activate Google Assistant. Switching between the two can be done through the Settings > Apps > Assistant pathway, followed by selecting your preferred digital assistant. Regardless of the choice made, the activation hotword remains as “Hey Google.”
Alternate Activation Methods
A potential solution to bypass the hotword confusion is the Quick Tap feature. This function allows users to activate their chosen assistant by double-tapping the back of the phone. To use this feature, one must navigate to Settings > System > Gestures > Quick Tap and activate the “Access your digital assistant” option. This way, users can avoid using the power button or saying “Hey Google” to activate their assistant.
Disabling Power Button Activation
If users find long-pressing the power button bothersome or confusing, this shortcut can be deactivated. This can be done through Settings > System > Gestures, with the Press & Hold power button toggled off. Users can then opt for a long press of the power button to open either the Power menu or the Digital assistant. The sensitivity of the long press can also be adjusted according to user preference.
Impact of Google’s Shift to Gemini
Regardless of the available activation techniques, the optimal way to access either Gemini or Google Assistant is no longer present on Pixel phones. Earlier models, such as the Pixel 2, featured an Active Edge function, which allowed users to squeeze the sides of their phone to activate Google Assistant. However, this feature was removed on later models, starting with the Pixel 5.
The current debate emphasizes the need for Google to consider a hotword change for Gemini, perhaps to “Hey Gemini” or simply “Gemini.” As Google continues to substitute Google Assistant with Gemini on Android, this is likely to happen. Users are encouraged to make the switch to Gemini on their Pixel for a more seamless experience.
Questions & Answers
1. Why do users still have to say “Hey Google” to activate Gemini?
This is due to Google not yet implementing a hotword change following the shift from Google Assistant to Gemini.
2. What is the Quick Tap feature on Pixel phones?
Quick Tap is a feature on Pixel phones that lets users double tap the back of their device to activate their digital assistant, bypassing the need to say the hotword.
3. What was the Active Edge feature on previous Pixel models?
The Active Edge feature allowed users to squeeze the sides of their Pixel phone to call up Google Assistant. However, this function was removed in later models, starting with the Pixel 5.
