Losing functionality is never a thrilling experience when it comes to a product or app, and unfortunately, that’s the situation unfolding with Google Assistant.
The transformation of this icon’s role, shifting from a Google Assistant shortcut to a Google Search tool, is currently in the process of “rolling out.”
Google insists that this change isn’t about removing a feature. In a blog post, the company clarified that the adjustment aims to establish “a more consistent experience.” According to Google, the most prevalent use of the microphone icon is to fetch Google Search results, suggesting that the removal of the Assistant shortcut may prove beneficial to some users.
Officially, the microphone icon in the Pixel Launcher’s search bar will now initiate Voice Search. You can pose a question to Google, and it will provide results from the Search.
Nevertheless, the activation of Google Assistant might be slower in some instances post-removal of the shortcut. Despite this, you can still prompt Assistant by saying “Hey Google” or by a long-press on the home or power buttons.
Certain actions requiring a voice assistant might become more challenging, especially if you’re unable to simply say, “Hey, Gogle.”
The positive aspect is that Google is actively informing users about the change. Once a user receives the update to reassign the microphone icon, a pop-up will greet them, explaining the new functionality.
A potential concern arises from the fact that many users have developed muscle memory over the years while using Assistant through Pixel Launcher, potentially leading to some frustration during the adjustment period.
This marks the initial significant change, likely the first of many, preceding Google’s revamp of Assistant as it integrates Bard and AI.
