1

Feature Story

Android users could soon replace Google Assistant with ChatGPT

Jan 06, 2024 · arstechnica.com
Android users could soon replace Google Assistant with ChatGPT
OpenAI's ChatGPT is reportedly developing support for Android's assistant APIs, potentially allowing Android users to replace Google Assistant with ChatGPT. The ChatGPT app, which started as a text-only generative AI and gained voice and image input capabilities in September, could become the system-wide assistant app, popping up anywhere in Android to respond to user queries. The app could even use an always-on voice hotword if it were bundled as a system application, although this would require a distribution deal with an Android manufacturer.

However, third-party voice assistant apps like ChatGPT face challenges in replacing Google Assistant due to their lack of a robust app ecosystem for hosting notes, reminders, calendar entries, and other input-based functions. Despite this, ChatGPT could serve as a viable alternative for Google Search. The development comes as Google reportedly plans to revamp its neglected Google Assistant with generative AI and launch a new assistant, "Pixie," with the Pixel 9 in late 2024.

Key takeaways

  • The Android ChatGPT app is working on support for Android's assistant APIs, potentially allowing users to replace Google Assistant with ChatGPT.
  • Being the default Assistant app allows the app to be launched via the power button or a gesture, and it can read the current screen text and images for processing.
  • ChatGPT could use an always-on voice hotword if it signed a distribution deal with an Android manufacturer, allowing it to launch even when the screen is off.
  • While third-party voice assistant apps like ChatGPT don't run a serious app ecosystem, they could serve as a decent alternative for Google Search, providing answers to user questions.
View Full Article

Discussion (0)

Be the first to comment!