Google Assistant’s smart displays are popular not only for their affordability, but also because of the number of features packed into each of the devices. Now that feature list grows even longer thanks to a new set of updates from Google. The most recent update adds a list of new features that will streamline your day to day experience with a Google Assistant-powered smart display.
One of the most notable features is a new “Your Morning” page. This contains everything you need to get started with your day, like reminders of your first meetings, a rundown of the news, and a glimpse of what the weather is like.
Another feature is the ability to reconnect with friends, family, and co-workers directly from the smart display through Zoom, Google Meet, and Duo. Zoom isn’t available just yet, but will be later this year. All of these services can be accessed through the Communicate page. You can also cancel and reschedule meetings and send a message to anyone involved to let them know if you’re running late.
There are more entertainment options, too. The Media page will suggest videos and shows to keep everyone entertained, as well as offer suggestions from music and video providers.
There are also quality-of-life features that many people have requested, including a dark theme. You can choose between this theme and a light theme, or opt for the automatic option instead. This will adjust the display naturally based on the ambient light in the room.
You can also wake up with the soon-to-come Sunrise Alarm. This will gradually increase the brightness of the screen over 30 minutes before your alarm goes off to help you wake up more naturally and shake off grogginess. Best of all, you can tell the alarm to stop simply by saying, “Stop.” You don’t have to say, “Hey, Google” — because who can manage to form complete sentences immediately after their alarm goes off?
Another feature is the Home Control page. This gives you an at-a-glance view of your entire smart home and allows you to control all connected devices throughout the house. Finally, you can set up multiple accounts on Google Assistant devices so that you can see the entire family’s schedule in one place. This also allows multiple users to control the device with ease.
These updates will roll out soon to Google Assistant devices, although some features (like Zoom) won’t be available until later in the year.
