The CES 2019 event is going on in full swing and being a part of it, Google has made a bunch of big and small announcements for Google Assistant. Let’s take a quick look at all of them:
The New Interpreter Mode
The search giant has added various new features to its Google Assistant; the first one being the Interpreter mode to translate conversations in various languages. You are just required to say ‘Hey Google, be my Spanish interpreter’ and Google Assistant is at your service in Spanish.
The Interpreter mode is currently under a pilot program at Ceasars Place in Vegas, Hyatt Regency in San Francisco and Dream Downtown in New York City. The feature will roll out in the coming weeks to Google Home devices and Smart Displays.
I saw a short demo of the feature via The Verge, and while it was able to translate a couple of sentences correctly, it struggled to recognize a few words.
Google Assistant Enters Google Maps
Secondly, Google Assistant is now available on Google Maps for Android and iOS users. This integration will allow you to calculate and share your ETA with people, listen to songs while traveling.
In addition to this, Google is joining hands with JBL and Anker to incorporate Google Assistant in car accessories.
Google As A Travel Assistant
Thirdly, Google Assistant will now be able to conduct flight check-ins (presently for domestic flights with United Airlines), save and get the boarding pass, and notify you about check-in time, on Android and iOS.
Additionally, you will be able to book hotels rooms by using Google Assistant with travel partners such as Choice Hotels, AccorHotels, InterContinental Hotels Group, Priceline, Expedia, Mirai, and Travelclick.
You will also be able to take notes in other apps like Google Keep, Todoist, Bring etc., with the help of Google Assistant. Furthermore, Google Assistant, after selecting the required settings, will work even when the Android smartphone is locked.
More For Google Assistant
Additionally, Google has introduced Assistant Connect for device makers to add Google Assistant to their devices in an easy and convenient way.
With Lenovo and Whirlpool, Google has launched the Lenovo Smart Clock and KitchenAid Smart Display by Whirlpool, respectively, both integrated with Google Assistant.
Last but not the least, Google Assistant will arrive in smart audio accessories such as Sonos One and Sonos Beam, TVs from Samsung and AndroidTV devices from Sony, Hisense, Philips, TCL, Skyworth, Xiaomi, Haier, Changhong, and JVC.
With over 1,600 home automation brands included, Google Assistant will now work on more devices such as HVAC, Security, EV Charging, and many others.
