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Gemini vs. Google Assistant on WearOS

Google is transitioning WearOS watches from Google Assistant to Gemini. Both assistants handle voice commands, but Gemini brings more advanced AI capabilities while Google Assistant offers broader device compatibility and proven reliability.


Key Differences

Understanding what separates these two assistants helps you choose the right one for your needs.

  • AI Capabilities: Gemini uses Google's latest large language model for more natural conversations, better context understanding, and creative responses. Google Assistant uses an older model that's reliable but less flexible.

  • Conversation Memory: Gemini maintains better context across multi-turn conversations. You can ask follow-up questions without repeating yourself. Google Assistant often loses context after a few exchanges.

  • Response Style: Gemini provides more detailed, nuanced responses and can handle ambiguous questions better. Google Assistant gives shorter, more direct answers that work well for quick commands.

  • Feature Availability: Google Assistant currently supports more third-party integrations and routines. Gemini is catching up but some features haven't migrated yet.


Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureGeminiGoogle Assistant
AI ModelLatest LLM (Gemini Pro)Older model
Conversation ContextMaintains across turnsLimited memory
Complex QuestionsExcellentGood
Response SpeedSlightly slowerFaster
Smart HomeFull supportFull support
Third-Party AppsGrowing supportBroader support
AvailabilityNewer watchesAll WearOS watches

What Gemini Does Better

Gemini excels in these areas on WearOS.

  • Complex Queries: Ask multi-part questions like What's the weather tomorrow and should I bring a jacket to my 3 PM meeting and get coherent answers addressing both parts.

  • Natural Language: Gemini understands casual phrasing better. I'm cold triggers thermostat adjustment without needing Set thermostat to 72 degrees.

  • Creative Tasks: Ask Gemini to help draft messages, suggest gift ideas, or brainstorm solutions. Google Assistant struggles with open-ended creative requests.

  • Contextual Follow-ups: After asking about a restaurant, you can say How late are they open without specifying which restaurant again.


What Google Assistant Does Better

Google Assistant still has advantages in certain areas.

  • Response Speed: Simple commands like timers and alarms execute noticeably faster on Google Assistant.

  • Routine Support: Complex multi-step routines created in Google Home work more reliably with Google Assistant.

  • Third-Party Integration: Apps like Spotify, Uber, and others have more mature Google Assistant integrations.

  • Reliability: Google Assistant has years of optimization. Gemini occasionally misunderstands commands that Assistant handles correctly.


Which Should You Use?

Choose based on how you primarily use voice commands on your watch.

  • Choose Gemini if: You want more natural conversations, frequently ask complex questions, need help with creative tasks, or want the latest AI capabilities.

  • Choose Google Assistant if: You prioritize speed for simple commands, rely heavily on routines and third-party integrations, or prefer proven reliability over new features.

  • Using Both: During the transition, many watches let you switch between assistants. Try both for a week to see which fits your usage patterns better.


See Also: How to Use Gemini on WearOS|Setting Gemini as Default|Gemini Voice Commands on WearOS