Google Assistant drops 7 more tools on Android and smart devices

Last Friday, we found out that Gemini is taking over from Google Assistant on Android phones. Alongside this, Google quietly shared that Assistant is losing seven more tools. Earlier this year, in 2024, Google already cut 18 features from Android, smart screens, and speakers. Now, they’ve added seven more to the list:
- You can no longer use your voice to like, share, or ask about the time and place of your photos. (You can still do this in the Google Photos app or check details on your smart screen or tablet.)
- Voice commands won’t adjust photo frame or background screen settings anymore. (You can tweak these in your smart display’s settings instead.)
- The interpreter mode, which helped translate live chats with someone speaking a different language, is gone. (Single words or short phrases can still be translated. Check out interpreter mode details.)
- Birthday alerts won’t pop up in Routines anymore. (You can still ask Assistant to remind you about birthdays.)
- You can’t schedule or hear Family Bell announcements with your voice. (Learn how to set up a Routine instead.)
- Daily updates, like getting the weather every day, won’t come automatically. (Set them up yourself with a custom Routine.)
- Assistant won’t work with car gadgets using Bluetooth or AUX connections.
The photo slideshow changes aren’t a big deal, but they take away some ease. Family Bell was loved by many, and now Routines is the go-to option.
Back in 2019, Google launched Assistant’s Interpreter Mode, turning smart screens and speakers into handy translation tools. It worked on Android too. Now, the Google Translate app on your phone is the better, more advanced choice to replace it.
Google Meet gets a fresh new look with Material 3 design

Google Meet is getting a big update to its look, thanks to the new Material 3 design. This change brings a cleaner and more modern style to the video calling app, making it easier and more enjoyable to use.
With Material 3, Google Meet now has rounder buttons, softer colors, and better spacing between elements. The main controls, like the microphone, camera, and end call buttons, are now larger and easier to tap. The icons and text are also clearer, which helps users find what they need quickly during a call.
Another improvement is the new “expressive” color system. This feature lets the app’s colors match your device’s wallpaper or theme, giving each user a unique and personalized experience. The changes also make Google Meet more accessible, as the new design is easier to read and use for everyone, including people with vision difficulties.
These updates are rolling out to both web and mobile versions of Google Meet. Google says the new look will help people feel more comfortable and focused during their meetings. Overall, the Material 3 update makes Google Meet not only look better but also work better for all its users.
Android
Easy ways to change Android Auto’s look with light and dark themes

Android Auto is a helpful tool that lets you use your phone’s apps safely while driving. It connects your phone to your car’s screen, making it easier to use maps, music, and calls. One of the features many people like is the ability to change how Android Auto looks by switching between light and dark themes.
How to switch between light and dark themes
Android Auto offers two main themes: light and dark. The light theme uses brighter colors, which can make the screen easier to see during the day. The dark theme uses darker colors, which can be more comfortable for your eyes at night or in low light.
To change the theme, follow these steps:
- Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
- Go to the settings menu.
- Find the “Theme” option.
- Choose between “Light,” “Dark,” or “Set by car” (this lets your car decide the theme based on the time of day or your car’s settings).
Why themes matter
Using the right theme can make driving safer and more comfortable. The light theme is good for bright days, while the dark theme helps reduce glare at night. Having these options means you can pick what works best for you, making Android Auto easier to use in any condition.
In short, Android Auto’s theme options are simple to use and help you drive more safely by making the screen easy to see, no matter the time of day.
Google Drive and Files by Google get fresh updates for easier use

Google is rolling out some helpful updates to two of its popular apps: Google Drive and Files by Google. These changes are designed to make managing your files and watching videos much smoother.
First, Google Drive is getting a new video player. Now, when you upload a video to Drive and open it, you’ll notice a fresh look that matches Google’s latest design style. The controls, like play and pause, are easier to use and look cleaner. This update makes it simpler to watch videos directly in Drive without needing to download them first.
Meanwhile, the Files by Google app is also getting a makeover. The app is adopting Google’s Material 3 design, which means it looks brighter and more modern. The buttons and menus are easier to see and use, making it simpler to find, move, and organize your files. There are also new color options and improved icons, so everything feels more user-friendly.
Both updates show Google’s commitment to making its apps more helpful and enjoyable to use. Whether you’re watching videos in Drive or sorting files on your phone, these changes aim to save you time and make things less complicated. If you use these apps, keep an eye out for these new features—they should arrive soon!
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