Google's Gemini chatbot fails to meet virtual assistant expectations

In recent discussions around Google's Gemini chatbot, users have expressed frustration with its performance as a virtual assistant. Many users noted that, while Gemini had potential as a conversational tool, it fell short when it came to executing routine tasks that require accuracy and reliability. Reports indicate that the rollout of Gemini has been limited, with only a small number of users on select devices like Samsung and non-Pixel phones gaining access to the chatbot features. Some users have compared their experiences with Gemini to Google's previous Assistant, stating a preference for Assistant due to its reliability in performing essential tasks like setting reminders, managing grocery lists, and controlling smart home devices. This dissatisfaction has led users to revert back to Assistant for their daily needs, citing incidents where Gemini was unable to perform simple commands, such as turning off lights. The common sentiment among users is that while Gemini shows promise in casual conversation, it fails to address practical needs effectively. There is a growing sentiment that Google's heavy investment in the Gemini project could be uncertain. Many users feel that the product might be phased out within the next eighteen months, along with its service infrastructure, which might be integrated into whatever Google develops next. This concern reflects a larger skepticism about whether AI technologies, particularly those based on large language models (LLMs), have evolved enough to replace existing assistant technologies that users have come to trust and rely upon. Ultimately, the discussion surrounding Gemini raises broader questions about the current state of AI and its role in everyday tasks. Users desire assistants that not only engage in conversation but also execute tasks with efficiency and precision, which is currently lacking in the Gemini experience. Without significant improvements and user feedback mechanisms, the future of this project remains precarious, potentially leading to its discontinuation in the competitive landscape of digital assistance.