Setting Gemini as Default Assistant on WearOS

Fix the common issue where your watch continues showing Google Assistant even after Gemini installation.

Understanding the Issue

Server-Side Activation - Gemini requires both app installation and server-side activation, which may not happen immediately.

Account Syncing - Your Google account needs to sync the Gemini preference across all devices, including your watch.

Regional Rollouts - Gemini may be available for installation but not yet activated in your specific region.

Cache Issues - Old assistant preferences may be cached on your watch, preventing the switch to Gemini.

Manual Setup Steps

Step 1: Check Phone Settings - Open Google app on your phone > Settings > Digital Assistant > Choose your Assistant > Select Gemini.

Step 2: Restart Watch - Power off your watch completely, wait 30 seconds, then power it back on.

Step 3: Clear Google App Cache - On your watch, go to Settings > Apps > Google > Storage > Clear Cache.

Step 4: Re-sync Account - Remove and re-add your Google account in watch settings to force a fresh sync.

Step 5: Test Activation - Try saying "Hey Google" or long-pressing the power button to see if Gemini responds.

Forcing the Switch

Voice Command Method - Say "Switch to Gemini" or "Use Gemini assistant" when Google Assistant is active.

Manual Toggle - In the Google app on your phone, manually toggle between assistants and then restart your watch.

Account Re-authorization - Sign out of Google account on both phone and watch, then sign back in.

Factory Reset - As a last resort, factory reset your watch and set it up fresh with Gemini already configured on your phone.

Verification Methods

Assistant Identity - Ask "What assistant am I talking to?" to confirm you're using Gemini.

Response Style - Gemini provides more detailed, conversational responses compared to Google Assistant.

Feature Access - Try advanced commands that are Gemini-specific to verify the switch was successful.

Settings Check - Look for Gemini-specific settings in your watch's Google app settings.

Common Troubleshooting

Still Shows Google Assistant - This may be a visual bug. Check if responses are actually coming from Gemini by testing advanced features.

Partial Functionality - Some features may still route through Google Assistant while others use Gemini during the transition period.

Region-Specific Delays - If Gemini isn't available in your region, the switch may not work even with manual configuration.

Enterprise Accounts - Corporate Google accounts may have restricted access to Gemini features.

When to Wait vs. Act

Recent Installation - If you just installed Gemini, wait 24-48 hours for server-side activation before troubleshooting.

Gradual Rollout - Google often enables features gradually, so your account may not have access yet.

Forced Update - If waiting doesn't work, try the manual steps above to force the assistant switch.