Google Assistant isn’t just for Android devices! You can also set it up on your iPhone or iPad. While Siri remains Apple’s default voice assistant, Google Assistant offers powerful features, especially if you already use Google services.
With Google Assistant, you can:
✅ Make phone calls, send texts, and compose emails
✅ Set reminders, create calendar events, and manage to-do lists
✅ Get directions, search for nearby restaurants, and check traffic updates
✅ Ask for news, weather forecasts, sports scores, and more
Ready to get started? Here’s how to set up and use Google Assistant on your device.
Setting Up Google Assistant
On Android Devices
Most Android phones come with Google Assistant preinstalled. If not, download it from Google Play. Your device must have:
- Android 5.0 or higher
- Google app version 6.13 or later
To enable Google Assistant:
- Go to Settings > Google > Account Services > Search, Assistant & Voice > Google Assistant.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set up voice activation.
On iPhone or iPad
Google Assistant is available for iOS devices through the Apple App Store. You’ll need iOS 11 or later to install it.
To set it up:
- Open the Google Assistant app.
- Tap your profile icon (top-right corner) to access settings.
- Adjust preferences, such as voice recognition and notifications.
Customizing Google Assistant
Once installed, you can personalize your Google Assistant experience:
🔹 Voice Match – Train the Assistant to recognize your voice.
🔹 Assistant Voice – Choose from different AI-generated voices.
🔹 Routines – Set up custom commands that trigger multiple actions at once.
By default, Google Assistant syncs with your Google account to access contacts, calendar events, and reminders. You can review these settings to ensure everything is set up correctly.
How to Activate Google Assistant
On Android
You can trigger Google Assistant by:
- Pressing and holding the Home button.
- Saying “OK, Google” or “Hey, Google.”
- Typing a command by tapping the keyboard icon.
On iPhone or iPad
Since Apple doesn’t allow Google Assistant to replace Siri, you’ll need to:
- Open the Google Assistant app manually.
- Tap the microphone icon to speak or the keyboard icon to type your request.
What Can You Ask Google Assistant to Do?
📞 Make a Phone Call
Say: “Call [contact name].”
- The first time you do this, you’ll need to grant the app access to your contacts.
- If the person has multiple numbers, Google Assistant will ask you to choose one.
- To start a video call, ask it to connect via Zoom, Google Meet, or FaceTime (on iOS).
💬 Send a Text Message
Say: “Send a text to [contact name].”
- Dictate your message, and Google Assistant will ask if you want to send or edit it.
- Once confirmed, your default messaging app will send the text.
✉️ Compose an Email
Say: “Send an email to [contact name].”
- Dictate the email, then confirm by saying “Send it.”
- The email will be sent via Gmail.
🗺 Get Directions
Say: “Show me directions to [location].”
- Google Assistant will provide a map, estimated travel time, and the best route.
- Tap Start to open navigation in Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze.
More Features of Google Assistant
💡 Stay Informed – Get news updates, weather reports, and stock market summaries.
🎵 Play Music – Ask Google Assistant to play songs on Spotify, YouTube Music, or Apple Music.
🕹 Play Games – Have fun with interactive voice games.
🔍 Search Anything – Say “Google this…” to find instant answers online.
To explore more features, tap the Explore icon in the Google Assistant app. You’ll find recommended skills, shortcuts, and personalized suggestions.
Final Thoughts
Google Assistant is a powerful AI tool that simplifies daily tasks, whether you’re using an Android device or an iPhone. From making calls and sending messages to getting directions and managing your schedule, it’s a versatile assistant that keeps you organized and informed.
Give it a try and see how it can enhance your daily routine! 🚀
