Always-On Voice Assistant: How to Make Your Device Listen
The Rise of Always-On Voice Control
Always-listening voice command functionality is rapidly gaining popularity. Previously requiring dedicated devices, this technology is now accessible on a wider range of platforms.
Users are no longer limited to devices like the Xbox One or Amazon Echo to benefit from hands-free control. Modern smartphones, tablets, and computers can be configured to continuously monitor for voice input.
How Always-On Voice Activation Works
A common concern is data privacy, but these systems are designed with security in mind. The process doesn't involve constant transmission of audio to remote servers.
Instead, the device performs local analysis of ambient sound. It remains in a passive state until the designated activation phrase is detected.
Activation and Response
Upon recognizing the activation phrase, the system initiates processing. Only then is the voice command sent for interpretation and execution.
This localized processing minimizes data transmission and enhances user privacy. It ensures that only intentional commands are acted upon.
The technology focuses on identifying the specific wake word before any recording or analysis of the subsequent speech occurs.
iPhone & iPad
Related information can be found regarding the utilization of Siri, the convenient iPhone assistant.
While Google initially implemented this functionality on Android, Apple has subsequently adopted it, albeit with some reservations. Currently, iPhones and iPads lack the necessary low-power audio processing chip to enable Siri to consistently listen for voice activation.
However, voice command listening can be enabled on your iPhone or iPad while it is connected to a power source and charging. To enable this capability, navigate to the Settings application, select 'General', and then tap on 'Siri'. Activate the "Listen for 'Hey Siri'" setting within this menu.
When your iPhone or iPad is charging, simply uttering "Hey Siri" will activate the assistant. For instance, if you routinely connect your device to charge overnight, you can use the command "Hey Siri, set an alarm for 7 a.m." to schedule an alarm for the following morning.
It is recommended to continue speaking naturally after initiating the command with "Hey Siri," without pausing unnecessarily.
Here's a summary of the key features:
- Always-on listening is available only when charging.
- Activation is done through the "Listen for 'Hey Siri'" setting.
- Seamless voice commands can be issued without pausing after the wake phrase.
This feature provides a hands-free way to interact with your device, particularly when it's conveniently positioned for charging.
The ability to utilize voice commands while charging enhances the usability of both iPhones and iPads.
Android
Related: 16 Android Voice Actions to Make Android Your Own Personal Assistant
Android versions 5.0 Lollipop and 4.4 KitKat provide the capability to initiate a voice command simply by uttering "OK Google," even with the screen deactivated. This functionality is contingent upon the device possessing the necessary hardware support.
If your device lacks dedicated hardware, the "OK Google" trigger can still be utilized when the screen is illuminated or during charging.
Enabling Voice Activation
To activate this feature, launch the "Google" application from your app drawer. Then, select the menu icon located in the top-left corner of the application interface.
Navigate to "Settings," followed by "Voice," and finally, tap ""OK Google" detection."
Initially, the feature is frequently enabled solely for use "From the Google app." This permits the activation of voice commands while actively using the Google application.
You can expand functionality by selecting "From any screen," allowing "OK Google" to function within any application when the screen is active, or while the device is connected to a charger.
Advanced Options
Depending on your device and charger, a further option, "Always on," may be available. Selecting this allows voice command initiation even when the screen is off.
These settings also provide control over the display of personal results when the screen is locked, ensuring privacy.
Operating Systems and Voice Activation: Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chrome OS
Currently, comprehensive voice assistant features are not widely implemented across traditional desktop operating systems. While Microsoft is developing Cortana integration for Windows 10, this functionality remains unavailable as of yet. Similarly, Apple has not yet incorporated Siri directly into the Mac OS X environment.
Google, however, has introduced "OK Google" support within the Google Chrome browser. Users can initiate voice searches by clicking the microphone icon located on the new tab page or the Google.com homepage.
Furthermore, Chrome can be configured to continuously listen for the "OK Google" trigger, eliminating the need for manual icon activation. To enable this feature, navigate to the Settings menu within Chrome and search for "OK Google," or access "Advanced settings" and locate the Privacy section. Simply check the box labeled "Enable OK Google."
Once enabled, you can activate voice search simply by stating "OK Google" while on the new tab page or Google’s homepage. It’s important to note that the browser doesn’t maintain constant listening.
Google is currently testing the implementation of always-on "OK Google" functionality on Chromebooks, aiming for availability whenever the screen is active. This feature is anticipated to be included in future releases of Chrome OS.
While Windows and Mac OS X do offer built-in voice command capabilities, these differ significantly from modern mobile voice assistants. These commands primarily focus on desktop navigation and, while useful, lack the advanced intelligence found on smartphones and tablets. Exploring these existing features may still prove beneficial.
Related: Utilizing Voice Dictation on Your Mac
The prevalence of voice commands is projected to increase substantially in the future. Integration into Windows 10 and contemporary versions of Mac OS X is expected. On mobile platforms, activation will become more streamlined, even during battery-powered operation.