Google Assistant

Updated: 05/03/2022 by Computer Hope
Logo: Google Assistant.

Google Assistant is a digital assistant service by Google that uses artificial intelligence to respond to voice requests. It can answer questions, set reminders, perform online retail transactions, and control electrical devices in the home.

History

First introduced in May 2016, Google Assistant was originally available on the Google Home device and Google Pixel smartphones. In February 2017, Google started making the Google Assistant available for more smartphones and other devices.

Compatible devices

Photo: A Google Home speaker.

Google Assistant is available on many devices running the Android operating system, including:

  • Android smartphones and tablets.
  • Android Auto - app for vehicle in-dash multimedia screens that mirrors the capabilities of an Android smartphone.
  • Android TV - an operating system for digital media players.
  • Google Nest speakers - voice-activated speakers for home or office.
  • Google Pixel Buds wireless earphones.
  • Google Pixelbook laptop/tablet hybrid.
  • Smart home appliances.
  • Smartwatches running Wear OS.

Capabilities

Google Assistant can:

  • Answer questions about any subject.
  • Control Chromecast devices.
  • Create and shuffle a music playlist (through various streaming applications such as Pandora or Google Play).
  • Find the perfect recipe for apple strudel.
  • Listen to top news stories.
  • Check the weather forecast.
  • Perform math calculations.
  • Set reminders for appointments and events.
  • Turn the home's lights on and off (requires Philips Hue lightbulbs).

Additional capabilities are being added to Google Assistant every month.

Android, Artificial intelligence terms, Digital assistant, Google Pixel