Google Assistant Loses 7 More Features Across Android and Nest Hub/Speakers: What It Means for Users

Google has announced the discontinuation of seven additional features for Google Assistant on Android devices and Nest Hub/speakers, a move that has puzzled many users. The tech giant's ongoing efforts to streamline its services and concentrate on core functionalities led to this decision. While Google claims these changes are aimed at improving user experience, the removal of these features has sparked mixed reactions among loyal users who have come to rely on them for their daily routines.

The Features Being Removed

The following seven features will no longer be available on Google Assistant-enabled devices, according to Google:

Voice-Controlled Recipes on Smart Displays

Previously, users could follow step-by-step recipes on their Nest Hub or other smart displays using voice commands. This feature was particularly well-liked by cooks who appreciated hands-free instruction in the kitchen. However, Google has decided to phase it out, forcing users of recipe apps to use manual navigation.

Voice-Controlled Audiobooks on Google Play Books

The ability to use voice commands to play, pause, or navigate audiobooks on Google Play Books is being removed. This feature was a convenient way for users to enjoy their favorite audiobooks without needing to touch their devices. Users will now need to control playback by hand.

Calling Devices Broadcast

The feature that allowed users to broadcast messages to all of their home's devices with Google Assistant support is being removed. This was particularly useful for families or households with multiple devices, as it enabled quick and easy communication across rooms.

Voice-Controlled Activities for Fitbit Sense and Versa 3

With the Fitbit Sense and Versa 3 smartwatches' integration of Google Assistant, users were able to start, stop, or check their workouts with voice commands. Users will have to rely on their devices' manual controls as a result of the removal of this feature.

Google Assistant Snapshot

Google Assistant Snapshot provided users with a personalized overview of their day, including reminders, weather updates, and calendar events. This feature was designed to help users stay organized, but it will no longer be available.

Voice-Controlled Meditation Sessions on Calm

Users could previously start or stop meditation sessions on the Calm app using voice commands. This feature is being removed, meaning users will need to manually interact with the app to access their meditation routines.

Voice-Controlled Sleep Sounds

Google Assistant made it possible for users to use voice commands to play sleep sounds like nature or white noise. This feature was popular among those who relied on it for relaxation or better sleep. Users will have to choose their own sleep sounds on their devices because it won't be there anymore.

Why Is Google Removing These Features?

Google has stated that the removal of these features is part of a larger strategy to concentrate on improving the quality and dependability of its core Assistant features. The company claims that these changes will allow it to allocate resources more effectively and deliver a better overall experience for users.

In a blog post, Google explained, “We’re constantly evaluating our features to ensure they’re meeting the needs of our users. Sometimes, this means retiring certain functionalities to focus on delivering the most helpful and reliable experiences.”

However, some critics argue that the removal of these features undermines the versatility of Google Assistant, which has long been praised for its wide range of capabilities. For many users, these features were integral to their daily lives, and their absence may lead to frustration and inconvenience.

User Reactions and Impact

Users on a variety of social media platforms as well as tech forums have responded to the announcement in a flurry. While some understand Google’s need to streamline its services, others feel that the company is taking away functionalities that made Google Assistant stand out from competitors like Amazon’s Alexa and Apple’s Siri.

"I used the recipe feature on my Nest Hub almost every day," one user tweeted. It was so convenient to have hands-free cooking instructions. I now feel as though I have lost a kitchen helper. Another user stated, "I relied on Google Assistant to play white noise every night," expressing disappointment at the removal of sleep sounds. It helped me get to sleep more quickly. I'll have to come up with a different solution now." The loss of the broadcast feature is especially discouraging for households with multiple Google Assistant-enabled devices. Families often used this feature to communicate across rooms, especially in larger homes. Users may be forced to find alternative means of quick communication if it is removed.

What’s Next for Google Assistant?

Despite the removal of these features, Google has assured users that it remains committed to enhancing Google Assistant’s core functionalities. The company has indicated that upcoming updates will concentrate on enhancing voice recognition, response times, and integration with other Google services. Additionally, Google is encouraging users to explore alternative methods for achieving similar results. For instance, although voice-controlled recipes are being phased out, users can still manually navigate to recipes on their smart displays. In a similar vein, supported apps can still manually play sleep sounds. Google has also emphasized that it will continue to innovate and introduce new features that align with user needs. Some users, on the other hand, are sceptical due to the company's strategy of removing existing features before adding new ones.

Alternatives for Users

For those disappointed by the removal of these features, there are a few alternatives to consider:

Third-Party Apps

Third-party apps are the only means by which many of the features that are being removed, like meditation sessions and sleep sounds, can still be accessed. Users can explore apps like Spotify, Headspace, or other meditation platforms to fill the gap.

Manual Controls

Manual controls on devices can still provide access to many of the features being removed, despite the fact that they are less convenient. For example, users can manually start recipes or play audiobooks on their smart displays.

Competing Smart Assistants

For users who feel let down by Google Assistant, competing smart assistants like Amazon Alexa or Apple Siri may offer similar functionalities. However, switching ecosystems may require additional investments in compatible devices.

Conclusion

Google's ongoing efforts to streamline its services and concentrate on core functionality are reflected in the decision to remove seven additional features from Google Assistant. Although the company claims that these changes will improve the user experience, many users have been dissatisfied with the removal of popular features. As Google continues to evolve its smart assistant, it will need to strike a balance between innovation and maintaining the features that users have come to rely on. For now, affected users will need to adapt to these changes or explore alternative solutions to meet their needs. One thing is certain: Google's decisions will continue to shape the future of smart assistants and their role in our daily lives. Whether this move will ultimately benefit Google Assistant in the long run is unknown.