Google Assistant functionality is no longer limited to certain wired headsets
Google Assistant features are now supported on more wired headphones. These features were previously limited to Google Pixel Buds and Bluetooth headphones from brands such as Sony and Bose.
The Google Assistant can now be used on all wired headphones, even those that haven’t been optimized for the virtual assistant. Google confirmed this to 9to5Google, and it is available with the latest version of the Google app. A new prompt now appears when a USB Type-C or 3.5mm headset is plugged into an Android phone. The notification alerts users that you can now “Talk to your assistant on headset”. Users can launch Google Assistant by pressing and holding the action button on their headphones.
Google Assistant features such as notification playback, calendar events, and music playback can be accessed through voice commands on the wired headphones. The process requires users to give Google Assistant permission to read notifications and personal results.
Google is still rolling out support for Assistant features for all wired headphones. 9to5Google has found that while this works for some 3.5mm headphones and those plugged in with USB-C connectors, a support document still says headphones optimized for Google Assistant . Additionally, Google Assistant features are not yet supported on Bluetooth headphones, except for those that already have them.
There are a handful of Bluetooth headphones and wireless headphones that are compatible with Google Assistant. But for those who still stick to 3.5mm headphones or use USB-C connectors, this update can be very useful. Android users should make sure that the Google app is updated to the latest version for it to work on their phones.
