Make ChatGPT Your Android Default Assistant

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

With Google planning for Gemini to replace Google Assistant on many Android phones, you might be looking for alternatives. The good news is, if you prefer ChatGPT, you can now set it as your default voice assistant on Android, thanks to the latest beta version 1.2025.070 from OpenAI's ChatGPT.

This change allows for immediate activation of ChatGPT's voice mode, which is excellent for users who frequently interact with the AI. However, there are a few limitations to be aware of. You won't be able to launch ChatGPT using a hotword; access will be manual. Additionally, ChatGPT cannot be used to control your Android device's functions – for that, you'll still need Google Gemini.

But don't worry, this change isn't set in stone. You can try out ChatGPT as your default assistant and, if it doesn't suit your needs, simply follow these steps again to switch back. Here's how to do it:

1. Join the ChatGPT Beta Program via Play Store

(Image: © Future)

To get started, you need to join ChatGPT’s beta program. Launch the Play Store on your Android device and search for ChatGPT.

Once you're on the app description page, scroll down to the bottom and find the "Join the beta" section. Tap Join. When prompted to confirm, select Join again.

2. Install and Sign Into the ChatGPT App

(Image: © Future)

It might take a few minutes for your account to be added to the beta program. Once it's done, you can install ChatGPT to your Android device (or update it if you already have it).

Then, open the ChatGPT app and sign into your ChatGPT account (or create an account if you don't have one).

3. Access Your Android Device Settings

(Image: © Future)

Next, open your device’s settings and select Apps from the menu.

4. Navigate to Default App Settings

(Image: © Future)

Now, select Choose default apps. This option might be located at the top of the screen. Then, select Digital assistant app. By default, this is usually set to Google.

5. Set ChatGPT as Your Default Assistant

(Image: © Future)

On the following screen, select Digital assistant app one more time. You should now see ChatGPT listed as an alternative option.

If it's there, you can select ChatGPT to make it your default.

6. Activating Your New Default Assistant ChatGPT

(Image: © Future)

To use ChatGPT as your assistant, you can long-press the home button or swipe up from the bottom corner of your screen. The method depends on whether you're using three-button navigation or gesture navigation.

For an alternative shortcut, you might also want to learn how to change your Samsung Galaxy side key settings.

---

And that's all there is to it! You now know how to make ChatGPT your default assistant on Android instead of Gemini.

If you're interested in exploring more AI capabilities, you might want to check out how to make a GIF in ChatGPT or how to make images in ChatGPT.

And if you're looking for AI to help with other tasks, like finding the best haircut for your face shape, you can give Gemini a try.