New Features Coming to Google Assistant in 2020
While attending CES 2020, I saw many new features that are coming to the Google Assistant this year. Here’s what they are and what we know about them so far.
Google Assistant is Everywhere
Google Assistant has always been in phones and speakers, but now it is in Nest Wi-Fi and is also in Google Stadia – Google’s gaming platform.
It was impressive to see how many devices now support the Google Assistant by default. I used to have to search to find specific devices that are compatible with the Google Assistant, but now I feel like it is in everything. It supports thousands of devices. This includes smart faucets, mirrors, etc.
New Device Notifications for Android
After adding a smart plug to the manufacturer’s app you will get a notification from the Google Assistant to allow you to easily connect it to the Google Assistant. You can then quickly add it to the Google Assistant and control it with your voice.
Improvements to Adding Devices
Google is improving how to add devices through a smart speaker. A compatible Bluetooth bulb is required for this. No hub is required and you don’t have to sign in to the 3rd party account to get it to work.
- Tap the light you want to add
- Pick a room
- Name it
Scheduled Actions
Easily turn devices on or off at a specific time. For example, you can ask the Google Assistant to turn the kids’ lights off at 9:05 PM.
20 New Types of Devices
Google can now control 20 new types of devices: AC units, air purifiers, bathtubs, vacuums, and much more
Household Notes
Ask the assistant to leave a note. It will show a sticky note on the Google smart display screen. You can leave a note for you to remember later, or leave a note to make sure someone knows they are appreciated.
Household Contacts
Create speed-dial contacts for everyone in the family to use. You could add a speed-dial for the babysitter, the dog walker, pediatrician, grandma and grandpa, etc.
Privacy Update
You will be able to more easily browse and delete your data. For example, you’ll even be able to delete it from the smart speaker:
- Hey Google, that wasn’t for you
- Hey Google, delete everything that I’ve said this week
By default, it will not store the command you send to the Google Assistant. You can opt-in to keep a history if you’d like.
Read It
I’m really excited about this feature. There are so many articles I’d like to read, but I just don’t have time.
Use Google Assistant to read what is on your screen to you in a natural way. You will be able to open an article in Chrome or the Google app and say, “Hey Google, Read it”.
TV with Far Field Mics
This is for TVs with the Android TV software. If the TV is on you get a visual response. If the TV is off you still get a response, just not a visual one. Google is partnering with High sense, TCL and Samsung for this interaction
Google Assistant In the Car
Coming first to the BWR X5, you will no longer need to plug in your phone to use Android Auto. It will now happen wirelessly. You can then use voice commands, or use the screen, to interact with the device.
Volvo XC40 Recharge has built in Google Assistant, which means it doesn’t need your phone to operate. This means you can have an iPhone or Android and the experience will be the same.
On the Volvo XC40 Recharge you’ll be able to ask the Google Assistant how much battery your car has and use Google Maps to find a battery station. You will also be able to adjust the temperature in the car with the Google Assistant.
