March 15, 2025, 03:08 AM PDT – Google has introduced a feature allowing Android users to designate ChatGPT as their default digital assistant, replacing Google Gemini on compatible devices. The update, reported on March 14, 2025, enhances user flexibility in choosing AI assistants, as noted by Android Police.
To implement this change, Android users need to install the VoiceGPT app, a third-party application, as detailed by ZDNet. The process involves accessing Android settings, navigating to “Digital Assistants from Google,” and selecting ChatGPT through VoiceGPT, according to 9to5Google. This option is part of Google’s recent policy shift to permit third-party assistants on Android, expanding beyond Gemini’s default status, per Digital Trends.
Google Gemini, formerly Google Assistant, offers comprehensive features such as web search, smart home integration, and voice commands. In contrast, ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, specializes in conversational AI, appealing to users seeking advanced dialogue capabilities, as reported by GSMArena. Users can activate ChatGPT by holding the home button or swiping from the bottom corners, though a device restart may be required to resolve potential technical errors, per 9to5Google.
OpenAI is developing direct integration of this feature into the ChatGPT app, but currently, VoiceGPT serves as the intermediary for Android users, according to ZDNet. The update does not disable Gemini but provides an alternative for users preferring ChatGPT’s functionality on their devices.
Additional information about OpenAI’s integration plans and Google’s assistant ecosystem will be provided as developments arise.
