"Google Removes Pixel Launcher Shortcut and Nest Hub Features"
Google has re-mapped the microphone icon in the Pixel Launcher's search bar, removing its function as a Google Assistant shortcut and instead making it trigger Google Search results. This change was announced alongside the removal of 17 features in Google Assistant, with Google stating that the microphone icon's most popular use case is to get Google Search results. While users can still access Google Assistant through other methods, such as voice commands or button presses, the change may cause frustration for those accustomed to using the shortcut.