Ok Google, Google’s voice assistant, allows you to control your Android device and get information using only your voice. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of Ok Google.
Table of Contents
Turn On “Ok Google” Detection
The first step is to make sure “Ok Google” detection is enabled on your device. This allows you to activate Google Assistant without having to tap anything – just say “Ok Google” from any screen.
To enable it:
- Open the Google app
- Go to Settings > Voice > “Ok Google” detection
- Turn on “From any screen”
You can also retrain your voice model here to improve accuracy.
Useful Voice Commands
Here are some of the most useful Ok Google voice commands:
Everyday Tasks
- Set a timer/alarm
- Schedule calendar events
- Take a selfie
- Turn on/off WiFi, Bluetooth, flashlight
- Open apps
- Call/text contacts
- Navigate home/work
- Play music
Information
- Weather forecast
- Sports scores
- Unit conversions
- Random facts
- Business hours
- Definitions
Media Controls
- Play/pause music
- Skip song
- Increase/decrease volume
- Play podcast/playlist
Travel
- Traffic conditions
- Find nearby restaurants
- Translate phrases
- Currency exchange rates
Enable Continued Conversations
With continued conversations enabled, you can have a back-and-forth conversation with Google Assistant without having to repeat “Ok Google” each time.
To enable it:
- Open Google Assistant settings
- Go to Preferences > Continued Conversation
- Turn on the toggle
Now Assistant will keep listening for your follow up questions or commands.
Personalize the Assistant
You can personalize the Google Assistant to recognize your voice specifically and provide customized results.
In Assistant settings:
- Go to You tab
- Turn on Voice Match and train your voice
Now when you say “Ok Google” while your device is locked, it will recognize your voice and give personal results from your Google account.
The You tab also allows you to teach Assistant important places, contacts, and more to improve personalization.
Use App Shortcuts
Many apps have Google Assistant shortcuts that allow voice control of common tasks.
Some examples:
- “Ok Google, play my Discover Weekly playlist on Spotify”
- “Ok Google, read my latest email from John Smith”
- “Ok Google, show me nearby coffee shops on Yelp”
Check available shortcuts by asking “Ok Google, what can you do?” or in Assistant settings under Shortcuts.
Optimize Privacy Settings
If privacy is a concern, check your Assistant privacy settings:
- Open Assistant settings
- Go to the You tab
- Review activity controls, history, and other options
Turn off what you don’t want the Assistant saving or using to personalize results.
Explore New Commands
Part of the fun is discovering new things to try just by asking. See what Assistant can do – you might be surprised!
Some fun queries:
- “Tell me a joke”
- “Flip a coin”
- “Beatbox for me”
- “What’s your favorite color?”
The possibilities are endless with Ok Google. Experiment with voice commands and have fun along the way!
