# This free Android assistant could replace Google Assistant Meet Dicio, the open-source voice assistant that keeps your data private - **Source:** [Latest news](https://brifing.si/source/77d15218-219f-472d-bf40-31b5646d2942) - **Published:** 2026-08-14 - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/a3524b7e-e9cc-47e9-94fa-c5f027327a3c ## The search for a Google Assistant alternative With Google retiring Assistant and Gemini failing to deliver on basic functionalities like hands-free calling, users are seeking alternatives. Open-source solutions like Dicio are gaining importance as users prioritize local processing over cloud-based solutions. The inability of Gemini to reliably handle core features has created a gap in the market for privacy-focused voice assistants. ## What is Dicio and how does it work? Dicio is a free, open-source voice assistant app for Android that processes all user input locally on the device. It handles basic functions like weather updates, web searches, finding song lyrics, opening apps, and calculations. Activated by the 'Hey Dicio' wake word, it provides both voice and graphical feedback while maintaining user privacy through on-device processing. ## Dicio's advantages and limitations Dicio's biggest advantage is its on-device processing that prevents third-party data sharing. However, it currently lacks features like sending emails/messages and doesn't support Android Auto. The development team is actively working on the app, with expectations for new features. Despite these limitations, many users are adopting it as their default assistant due to privacy concerns. ## How to install Dicio Dicio is easily downloadable from the Google Play Store. Installation requires granting microphone permissions and downloading necessary speech-to-text files. The app also downloads an AI model during setup. Once installed, it can be activated with the 'Hey Dicio' command (pronounced 'diss-eee-oh'). The straightforward setup process makes it accessible to most Android users. ## Dicio's configuration options Dicio offers various settings including language selection, theme, skills, input method, and wake word recognition. While there's an option to import custom wake words, this feature currently doesn't work on Android. The app works well out of the box with minimal configuration needed, allowing users to start using core functionalities immediately after installation. ## Android Auto incompatibility Dicio's most significant current limitation is its lack of Android Auto support. Google doesn't recognize Dicio as a valid voice assistant for Android Auto, requiring a policy change for integration. This creates a major drawback for users who rely on hands-free functionality while driving. The inability to work with Android Auto significantly limits Dicio's utility in vehicles. ## Concerns about Google's paid plans Users worry that Google might limit free Gemini features in the future. Currently, the cheapest paid plan is Gemini AI Plus at $7.99/month. Google's pricing strategy raises concerns about potential restrictions on free services, making alternatives like Dicio more appealing. The possibility of feature limitations in free tiers is driving users toward independent solutions. ## Privacy at the forefront Dicio's key advantage is its local processing that prevents third-party data sharing. As privacy concerns grow, locally-processed alternatives to cloud-based solutions like Google's are becoming more attractive. With increasing awareness about data security, apps like Dicio that prioritize user privacy are expected to gain popularity among security-conscious Android users. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.zdnet.com/article/dicio-free-android-assistant-gemini-keeps-data-private/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._