Google is replacing the voice search button on Android with Google Assistant.
This update involves the voice search shortcut activated by “OK Google,” the microphone button on the home screen widget, and the microphone button within the Google app itself.
Previously, the voice search button on Android could be used for web searches and various actions such as calls, texts, emails, and music.
With the integration of Google Assistant, all previous voice search shortcuts can now be used for more advanced tasks, like controlling smart home devices and interacting with third-party apps.
According to reports, this change has been confirmed across three different devices running different versions of Android. One explanation for this shift is that voice search created a divergent and inconsistent experience on devices that had Assistant. Users might have been confused about why one voice search appeared from the bottom of the screen and another from the top, or why one could execute tasks that the other could not. It seems Google is gradually phasing out the traditional Voice Search experience on devices with Assistant activated.
Traditional voice search may still be available on devices without Google Assistant.
