Setting Gemini as Default Assistant on WearOS
If your watch still shows Google Assistant after installing Gemini, follow these steps to switch to Gemini as your default assistant.
Why This Happens
Several reasons can cause your watch to stay on Google Assistant.
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Server-Side Activation:
Geminirequires both app installation and server-side activation, which may take time. -
Account Sync Delay: Your Google account needs to sync the
Geminipreference to your watch. -
Cache Issues: Old assistant preferences may be cached on your watch.
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Regional Rollout:
Geminimay be installed but not yet activated in your region.
Step-by-Step Fix
Follow these steps in order to switch to Gemini.
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Step 1 - Phone Setup: On your Android phone, open
GoogleappSettingsDigital AssistantChoose your AssistantselectGemini. -
Step 2 - Restart Watch: Power off your watch completely, wait 30 seconds, then power back on.
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Step 3 - Clear Cache: On your watch, go to
SettingsAppsGoogleStorageClear Cache. -
Step 4 - Re-sync Account: If still not working, remove your Google account from watch settings and re-add it.
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Step 5 - Test: Press and hold your assistant button or say
Hey Googleto verifyGeminiresponds.
Patience First
If you just installed Gemini, wait 24-48 hours before troubleshooting. Server-side activation takes time.
Verify the Switch
Confirm you're actually using Gemini.
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Ask Directly: Say
What assistant am I talking toandGeminiwill identify itself. -
Response Style:
Geminiprovides more detailed, conversational responses thanGoogle Assistant. -
Try Advanced Features: Test
Gemini-specific features like extended conversations or complex queries.
Still Not Working
If the steps above don't work, try these additional options.
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Voice Command Switch: While
Google Assistantis active, saySwitch to GeminiorUse Gemini assistant. -
Full Account Reset: Sign out of your Google account on both phone and watch, then sign back in.
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Factory Reset: As a last resort, factory reset your watch and set it up fresh with
Geminialready configured on your phone. -
Check Region: Verify
Geminiis available in your region. The switch may not work in unsupported areas.
Visual Bug
Sometimes the icon shows Google Assistant but responses actually come from Gemini. Test with advanced queries to verify which assistant is actually responding.
See Also: How to Set Up Gemini on Smartwatch|Gemini vs Google Assistant on WearOS|Troubleshooting Gemini on WearOS