How to Use Google Assistant on Android

Learn to activate, configure, and use Google Assistant on Android devices. Set up voice commands, customize settings, and master hands-free control.

1. Activate Google Assistant. Hold the Home button or say 'Hey Google' to wake the assistant. On phones without a Home button, swipe diagonally from either bottom corner toward the center. The Assistant interface appears with a colorful animation and listening indicator.
2. Configure initial settings. Open Settings > Google > Search, Assistant & Voice > Google Assistant. Tap 'Assistant' tab and select your device. Enable 'Hey Google' detection and train your voice model by saying the wake phrases three times when prompted.
3. Ask questions and get information. Say or type questions like 'What's the weather tomorrow?' or 'How tall is the Eiffel Tower?' Assistant provides spoken answers with visual cards showing additional details. Tap cards to open related apps or websites for more information.
4. Control your device with voice commands. Use commands like 'Turn on Bluetooth,' 'Set volume to 50%,' or 'Open Spotify.' Assistant directly controls Android settings and launches apps. Say 'Take a screenshot' or 'Turn on flashlight' for quick device functions.
5. Manage tasks and reminders. Say 'Remind me to call mom at 3 PM' or 'Add milk to my shopping list.' Assistant creates reminders in Google Calendar and adds items to Google Keep lists. Check your reminders by saying 'What are my reminders for today?'
6. Connect smart home devices. Open Google Home app and tap '+' to add devices. Follow setup instructions for compatible lights, thermostats, and security cameras. Control devices by saying 'Turn off the living room lights' or 'Set temperature to 72 degrees.'
7. Send messages and make calls. Say 'Send a text to John saying I'm running late' or 'Call mom.' Assistant composes messages and initiates calls through your default apps. Confirm messages before sending by saying 'Send it' or 'Change it' to edit.
8. Customize Assistant preferences. Go to Assistant settings > You tab to manage personal info, linked accounts, and privacy controls. Adjust which apps can access Assistant data and configure notification preferences for Assistant responses.