Google has announced its decision to eliminate 17 underutilized features from Google Assistant to prioritize delivering an improved user experience. The move is part of Google’s commitment to refining the user interactions that matter most.
Starting January 26, users may receive notifications when attempting to access one of the discontinued features, notifying them that it will no longer be available after a certain date.
Among the features being removed are functionalities allowing users to send emails, videos, or audio messages using voice commands. Additionally, tasks such as making reservations, sending payments, and posting on social media will no longer be supported via voice commands.
Managing a stopwatch on Smart Displays and Speakers, voice control for activities on Fitbit Sense and Versa 3 devices, and caller ID display for calls made from speakers and Smart Displays using Duo will also be discontinued.
In line with these changes, Google aims to create a more consistent experience within the Google app. The microphone icon will trigger search results in response to user queries. However, this modification will limit the use of the Search bar microphone for tasks like turning on lights or sending messages.
Pixel devices will also be impacted, as the microphone in the Pixel Search bar will activate Voice Search instead of Google Assistant.
Simultaneously, Google has confirmed staff reductions affecting several hundred employees across hardware, core engineering, and Google Assistant teams. The layoffs will impact personnel in Google’s hardware and central engineering teams, along with individuals associated with Google Assistant, as reported by CNBC.