Checklist of 17 features killed by Google Assistant to prioritize AI development

Following Google’s recent announcement of significant layoffs impacting numerous employees in the Bay area, the company has now disclosed its decision to eliminate 17 features from Google Assistant. This move aims to reduce expenses and prioritize the development of artificial intelligence (AI). As a result, the removal of various functionalities from Google Assistant is already noticeable, reflecting the company’s strategic shift. Further information can be found below.

Google Assistant features removed

In a blog post, Google announced that it is making changes to Assistant, which includes removing 17 features. The company announced that it will invest in popular Google Assistant features and stop supporting some underutilized features. Although these features are no longer available, Google has shared a list of alternatives that you can use to perform the same tasks.

List of discontinued features

• Play and manage audiobooks in Google Play Books with your voice. You can still stream audiobooks from your mobile device.
• Set or use media, music or radio alarms on Google Assistant compatible devices.
• Using or managing a cookbook, transferring recipes from one device to another, playing an instructional video or showing step-by-step recipes.
• Stopwatch control on smart displays and speakers.
• Use your voice to call a device or send a message to a Google family group.
• Use your voice to send an email, video or voice message.
• Rescheduling an event in Google Calendar with your voice.
• Using the app launcher in Google Assistant driving mode in Google Maps to read and send messages, make calls, and manage media.
• Please schedule or listen to previously scheduled Family Bell announcements.
• Asking to meditate with Calm.
• Voice control of functions is no longer available on Fitbit Sense and Versa 3 devices.
• Viewing sleep summaries is only available on Google Smart Displays.
• Calls made from speakers and smart screens are not shown with the caller ID unless you use Duo.
• View the environment’s “Work to Work” time estimates on Smart Displays.
• Checking personal travel plans by voice.
• Request information about your contact information.
• Requesting certain actions by voice, such as sending a payment, making a reservation, or posting on social media.

Google Assistant VP Duke Dukellis wrote: “Starting January 26th, when you request one of these features, you may be told that it will not be available after a certain date.”

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