In recent AI news, it has been suggested that OpenAI’s ChatGPT could potentially replace Google Assistant on Android devices. The latest version of the ChatGPT Android app (version 1.2023.352) contains a code that hints at the ability to set ChatGPT as the default assistant app.

This update introduces a new activity named com.openai.voice.assistant.AssistantActivity, which is initially disabled but can be accessed through manual enabling. Upon launch, an overlay with a familiar swirling animation appears, suggesting the potential for invoking ChatGPT from any screen.

While this feature is still in progress, its integration could allow users to make ChatGPT the default digital assistant app on Android. This means accessing it conveniently via a long press on the home button or a swipe-up gesture, enhancing user accessibility.

Additionally, the latest app version introduces a Quick Settings tile, currently disabled by default. This tile aims to serve as a shortcut to launch ChatGPT’s new assistant mode, with indications that it might require a ChatGPT Plus subscription.

These developments indicate that ChatGPT is aiming to offer Android users an alternative to Google Assistant and the upcoming Assistant with Bard, and enhance accessibility. It will be interesting to see how these potential changes will impact the future of digital assistants on Android devices.