How to Best Utilize Google’s Voice Assistant

Have you said “so long!” to Siri, Apple’s own version of Google Now? Google Now is loaded with ways to help you make the most of your Android phone — with a fabulously easy hands-off approach.

Google Now is voice-activated. Although Google Now provides user-initiated queries (you ask, Google Now answers), the free service that’s a part of an Android phone goes far beyond that. In fact, you may receive timely information that Google Now believes you may want to know, all based on your search habits.

Read More: The Need-to-Know Voice Commands for Google Now

Google Now was first included in Jelly Bean (Android 4.1) back in July of 2012. If you are just now taking Android for a test spin, there’s no better time than now to get familiar with Google Now. It could easily replace your paper schedules, reminders, and let you know if you will need an umbrella during the morning commute.

How to Use Google’s Voice Assistant
To use Google Now, you must first activate “OK, Google.”

1. Open the Google app.
2. At the top left, click the menu icon, then “Settings,” and then “Voice.” Finally, click “OK Google.”
3. Choose when you want your phone to pay attention to you saying, “OK Google.”

Press and hold the home key button and swipe up (or click the Google icon that appears). The prompt will ask if you would like to see more information and use Google Now. After you click “Getting started,” you will cycle through a few different cards to customize your Google Now experience.

You can choose to see your commute time, and even where you parked your car, without a lot of extra searching around. After you have reviewed a card, swipe it to the right to move on the next.

Google Now Apps and Touchless Controls
More than the card system, you can ask questions about something you want to know, to learn the location of a store, or even to call a contact for you. It also works with a host of apps, including Trulia, WhatsApp, and Wink.

You will have to active the Touchless Controls settings for these functions. All you need to do is say “Okay Google Now” three times, so Google can get a good idea of the sound of your voice — and be ready and waiting when you need it the most.

The next time you need directions home, or want to know the hours of your favorite shop, Google Now makes it easy. Just make sure that your Android battery will be charged and ready when you are by installing PowerPRO by PSafe. Receive timely tips to help it last.