Oliver Cragg / Android Authority
TL; DR
- The Google Assistant’s quick set feature is now available on some Android devices.
- The feature allows users to skip the “Ok / Hey Google” hotword to answer calls or close alarms.
There’s no need to say hello to the Google Assistant before answering a call or closing an alarm. The voice assistant now has quick sentences, a feature that allows users to issue commands without saying “Hey Google”.
As first described in September, quick phrases allow the Assistant to respond to commands without the need for a hotword. Above all, XDA developer describes how these commands can be as short as a word to control phone calls or alarms. For example, users can command “reply” or “decline” to incoming phone calls without additional wake-up prompts. The same goes for alarms. The barking of “Snooze” or “Stop” delays or cancels the ringtone. Google is also reportedly planning several additional commands to control music, timers, and smart home items, take notes, and set reminders.
It’s an excellent addition for anyone looking for instant voice control or for those moments when devices are out of range. Of course, someone yelling “Please answer your phone” from across the room could accidentally answer your call. Mumbling that “slumber” while half asleep may not be a good way to get to work on time. Essentially, you want to use quick sentences with discretion.
See also: Basic Google Assistant Commands You Should Know
Those who use “Hey Google” to say hello to the Assistant may also find the new feature irritating. More than three in four readers in a recent survey admitted using “please” and “thank you” when talking to their voice assistants. Understandably, single word commands can be a little short for some.
XDAMishaal Rahman notes that the feature was spotted on a Pixel 3 XL running Android 12 Beta, but Google hasn’t officially announced the feature’s availability yet. However, we can expect fast sentences to be spread across more devices in the coming weeks.