# Google Assistant Discontinues Touch-and-Hold Notification Feature on Headphones
Google has revealed yet another notable alteration to its Assistant capabilities, specifically impacting users who utilize headphones equipped with integrated Assistant. The company is eliminating the function that allowed the activation of spoken notifications and responses using the “touch-and-hold” method, compelling users to depend entirely on voice commands instead.
## **What’s Changing?**
Per a [Google community post](https://support.google.com/assistant/thread/326148532/google-assistant-spoken-notifications-change-on-headphones?hl=en), the Assistant will cease reading notifications aloud when users press and hold a button on their headphones. Henceforth, users are required to say, **”Hey Google, read my notifications”** to access their messages. Furthermore, the ability to respond to notifications via touch-and-hold will also be eliminated.
This modification affects all headphones that are compatible with Google Assistant, although Google has not indicated a specific timetable for when this update will be implemented.
## **A Recurring Pattern**
This marks not the first instance of Google implementing such a change. In **September 2023**, users of **Google Pixel Buds Pro** were taken aback when the identical touch-and-hold feature was discontinued. Numerous users flocked to Reddit to voice their dissatisfaction, highlighting issues related to privacy, convenience, and the abrupt nature of the adjustment.
At that point, Google commented that the update was made **”based on user feedback.”** However, the decision faced considerable backlash, as many users favored the quiet and unobtrusive touch-based approach over needing to vocalize commands.
## **Impact on Popular Headphones**
The removal of this functionality will influence several of the **top headphones with Google Assistant compatibility**, including:
– **Bose QuietComfort Ultra**
– **Sony WH-1000XM5**
Owners of these premium headphones will now be required to acclimate to the new voice-only method for managing notifications.
## **Why Is Google Making This Change?**
While Google has not explicitly explained the rationale behind this transition, several plausible reasons exist:
1. **Standardization Across Devices** – Google might be aiming to create uniformity in Assistant interactions across all devices, such as smartphones, smart speakers, and wearables.
2. **Privacy and Security Considerations** – The company could be focusing on minimizing accidental activations or unauthorized access to notifications.
3. **Shift Toward Gemini AI** – Google’s recent AI initiatives, including **Gemini**, are being incorporated into newer devices like the **Pixel Buds Pro 2**, possibly indicating a gradual shift away from conventional Assistant features.
## **User Reactions and Concerns**
Many users have voiced their disappointment regarding the elimination of the touch-and-hold feature, especially since it offered a **quiet and discreet way** to interact with notifications. Speaking out loud to trigger Assistant may not be feasible in **public places, workplaces, or serene environments**.
Additionally, some users believe that Google is enacting these changes without adequate communication or user involvement, despite the company’s assertion that the decision was influenced by feedback.
## **What’s Next?**
As Google continues to enhance its Assistant and AI framework, more modifications may be forthcoming. Users who depend on the touch-and-hold feature might need to adjust to the new voice-dominated approach or seek alternative options, such as third-party applications or different headphone brands.
For the moment, those impacted should monitor updates from Google to determine when the change will officially take place.
### **What are your thoughts on this change? Do you favor touch-and-hold or voice activation for notifications? Share your opinions in the comments!**
