Google Assistant

Google Assistant is an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered voice assistant developed by Google. Users can interact with Google Assistant using text or voice entry with the trigger phrases "OK Google" or "Hey Google" for voice commands, voice searching, and voice-activated device control. Google Assistant uses a range of technologies to understand commands and perform tasks, including cognitive computing, machine learning, and voice recognition technology. Google Assistant can perform a range of tasks and interact with users in a conversational manner. Google Assistant functionality includes the following:

• Controlling devices, e.g., music players, smart home devices, etc.
• Accessing information from calendars and other personal information
• Finding information online, e.g., restaurant bookings, directions, weather, and news
• Setting up timers and reminders
• Making appointments
• Sending messages
• Opening apps on your phone
• Reading notifications aloud to the user
• Real-time translations

Google Assistant is available across Google's platforms, including Android, Android Wear, Android TV, and Android Auto. After initially being exclusive to the first Google Pixel, Google Assistant is now available on almost every Android device running Android 5.0 or later versions. Google Assistant is also available on iOS and can be accessed on iPhones and iPads through the Google Assistant app.

Google Assistant added two-way conversational abilities to previous assistant services from the company, such as Google Now. This allows users to ask for follow-up requests without having to reuse a trigger phrase. Google Assistant can also recognize voice profiles for different users, tailoring responses. The voice assistant learns from previous interactions to improve performance, becoming better at understanding context with each user.

Google unveiled Google Assistant on May 18, 2016, at its annual I/O developer conference in Mountain View, California. Google Assistant was initially seen as an extension of Google Now, the company's earlier web and text-based assistant service. Google Assistant added conversational interactions, allowing users to ask multiple follow-up questions. It was originally integrated into Allo (an independent chat-bit application from Google) and Google Home. Google Assistant was released as part of Allo in September 2016. In October 2016, it was made part of the Google Pixel smartphone, and in December 2016, Assistant became part of new Google Home devices. In February 2017, Assistant came to Android Wear Watches, and in March 2017, it was released widely on Android phones.