Skip to main content

    Google Assistant

    Voice-control your Android phone.

    How to wake it

    • Say "Hey Google" or "OK Google."
    • Or hold the home button.
    • Or swipe up from corner on newer phones.
    • Set up at Settings → Google → Assistant.
    • Train it to recognize your voice.
    • Works on phone, tablet, smart speakers, watches.

    Calling + texting

    • "Hey Google, call Sarah."
    • "Send a text to Mom."
    • "Read my text messages."
    • "Reply 'running late' to John."
    • "Call my last call back."
    • "Call my favorite contacts."

    Reminders + alarms

    • "Remind me to take my pills at 9 AM."
    • "Set timer for 15 minutes."
    • "Set alarm for 7 tomorrow."
    • "What's on my schedule today?"
    • "Remind me to water plants every Friday."
    • "Cancel my 9 AM alarm."

    Information + facts

    • "What's the weather today?"
    • "How many tablespoons in a cup?"
    • "Define resilience."
    • "Translate hello to Spanish."
    • "What's the latest news?"
    • "Who won the World Series?"

    Music + entertainment

    • "Play Beatles music."
    • "Play [TV show name] on Netflix."
    • "Pause music."
    • "What song is playing?"
    • "Tell me a joke."
    • "Read me a story."

    Smart home + emergency

    • "Turn on living room lights."
    • "Set thermostat to 72."
    • "Lock the front door."
    • "Call 911." (works on Android lock screen).
    • "Where am I?"
    • "Find my phone." (from another Google device).

    Built into your Android phone

    If you have an Android phone, you already have Google Assistant. Just say "Hey Google" followed by what you want. Many seniors with arthritis or vision issues find voice commands easier than tapping. Practice 3 commands today: setting an alarm, calling a family member, and asking the weather. Within a week it'll feel natural.