Android users now have the option to replace Google’s Gemini with OpenAI’s ChatGPT as their default digital assistant. With the latest beta update (v1.2025.070) of the ChatGPT app for Android, users can now set it as their primary assistant, making it easier to access via traditional navigation methods.
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How to Set ChatGPT as Your Default Assistant
Once configured, ChatGPT can be launched using the same methods previously used for Google Assistant and Gemini. This includes:
- Long-pressing the home button (if using the three-button navigation system)
- Swiping up from the bottom corner (for gesture navigation)
- Long-pressing the power button (if this setting is enabled)
- These shortcuts automatically launch ChatGPT’s voice mode, offering a hands-free AI assistant experience.
A Notable Limitation: No Hotword Activation
Despite this new capability, ChatGPT still lacks one key feature—hotword activation. Unlike Gemini, which can be summoned by saying “Hey Google,” ChatGPT cannot be triggered using a wake phrase. This limitation arises because OpenAI does not have access to privileged APIs that Google reserves for trusted, preinstalled apps.
How ChatGPT Compares to Other AI Assistants
Android is known for its open nature, allowing multiple AI assistants like Perplexity AI to be installed and used. However, until now, most third-party assistants could not be set as the default. Google’s Gemini had an advantage in this regard, but ChatGPT’s latest update changes that.
That said, some users may find ChatGPT’s voice mode more limited than alternatives like Perplexity AI, which offers advanced search capabilities. ChatGPT also initially opens in full chat mode before switching to an overlay, which may not be as seamless as other assistants.
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Currently, this feature is only available in the beta version of the ChatGPT app. Users who are not part of the beta program may have to wait for a broader release. To check availability, users can go to Settings > Apps > Default apps > Digital assistant app and select ChatGPT as their preferred option.