Google is removing its AI assistant, Gemini, from the main Google app on iOS devices to promote the standalone Gemini app. This change aims to strengthen Google’s competition against popular AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity. However, this transition may limit Gemini’s exposure, as millions of users actively engage with the Google app, and many might hesitate to install a new application.

In an email to users, the tech company announced, “Gemini is no longer available in the Google app.”

The message encouraged users who wish to continue utilizing Gemini on iOS to download the dedicated Gemini app from the App Store. This app was launched globally for iOS users late last year, but until now, Gemini has also been accessible within the main app.

With the Gemini app on iOS, users can engage in voice interactions through Gemini Live, integrate services such as Search, YouTube, Maps, and Gmail, ask questions, explore various topics, plan trips, receive AI-generated summaries, create images, and more. Users can communicate with Gemini through text, voice, or images from their camera.

The email also advised users that Gemini may still produce errors, urging them to verify the responses they receive.

Users interested in upgrading to a paid subscription for access to Gemini Advanced can do so via the iOS app, where the Google One AI Premium plan is available as an in-app purchase.

If iOS users attempt to access Gemini through the main Google app, they will see a full-screen notification stating “Gemini now has its own app,” along with a link to download it from the App Store.

This strategic decision by Google to encourage users to download a separate app comes with risks, potentially leading to a decrease in Gemini’s usage as some users may not make the transition. While this move allows for quicker updates and new features, it could also mean fewer people engaging with the assistant they are accustomed to using.