Move over, Gemini – you can now set ChatGPT as your default Android assistant. Here’s how
Earlier this year, Perplexity rolled out an Android app that gave you the ability to make it your default voice assistant over Gemini. You now have that option with ChatGPT, too.
Launch ChatGPT however you want
If you do this, you’ll be able to launch ChatGPT by whatever method you use now — long-pressing the home button, swiping up from the corner of the screen, or long-pressing the power button. You can’t trigger it by voice like you can with Gemini, and even if ChatGPT is your default, saying “Hey, Google” still brings up Gemini.
What you’re giving up
You should know, though, that if you opt for ChatGPT over Gemini, you will be giving up a few things. You won’t be able to control Google Home devices, change any settings, control music playback, or add things to your Google Calendar. You can still do some tasks, like setting timers or reminders, but those will be handled from the ChatGPT app instead of your built-in Google apps.
How to make ChatGPT your Android assistant
If you have the latest version of the ChatGPT app, head to your phone’s settings menu, then find Apps > Default apps > Digital assistant app. From there, tap “Default digital assistant app” (you’ll see your current assistant below this), and you’ll have the option to choose ChatGPT.
Conclusion
Whether or not you should switch ultimately comes down to what you want your Android assistant to do. The fact that Gemini is so deeply tied into other Google services and apps is a big reason to stay, but if you’re looking for better voice conversation, ChatGPT is probably the winner.
FAQs
Q: Can I still use voice commands to trigger ChatGPT?
A: No, you can’t trigger ChatGPT by voice like you can with Gemini. You’ll need to use the methods mentioned earlier (long-pressing the home button, swiping up from the corner of the screen, or long-pressing the power button) to launch ChatGPT.
Q: What are the limitations of using ChatGPT as my default Android assistant?
A: You’ll be giving up the ability to control Google Home devices, change settings, control music playback, and add things to your Google Calendar. You’ll still be able to perform some tasks, like setting timers or reminders, but those will be handled from the ChatGPT app instead of your built-in Google apps.
Q: Can I still use my existing Google services and apps with ChatGPT as my default assistant?
A: No, you won’t be able to control Google Home devices, change settings, control music playback, or add things to your Google Calendar. You’ll need to use the ChatGPT app for these tasks instead.
