Google’s François Beaufort has this week announced that Google Chromebook devices will soon support Google Voice searching from the desktop.
If you own a Chromebook that is running the Dev Channel, you can now enable support on your Chromebook system for “OK Google” voice commands. This new feature allows you to use voice commands similar to those already available on the Android mobile operating system, enhancing the functionality and convenience of your Chromebook.
Enabling Voice Search on Your Chromebook
To be able to use the Google Chromebook voice support, you will need to enable an experimental flag on your Chromebook to open up access. François Beaufort explained in his Google+ post:
“Did you ever dream you could say “OK Google” to your Chromebook? In that case, wake up and open the App Launcher.
If you’re on the Dev Channel now and have previously enabled the App Launcher Start Page hidden behind the experimental chrome://flags/#enable-app-launcher-start-page flag, it should work out the box. Just say “Ok Google” and search for something by saying it. That’s all 😉
As you will notice, it is just the beginning. There are many things we could do such as the “Ok Google, open Gmail” or “Ok Google, chat with Josh”.”
This feature is particularly useful for users who prefer hands-free interaction with their devices. By simply saying “OK Google,” you can initiate searches, open applications, and even send messages without touching the keyboard. This can be especially beneficial in scenarios where your hands are occupied or when you need to perform tasks quickly.
Future Potential of Voice Commands
The introduction of voice commands on Chromebooks opens up a plethora of possibilities for future enhancements. As François Beaufort hinted, the current capabilities are just the beginning. Imagine being able to control more aspects of your Chromebook through voice commands, such as adjusting settings, managing files, or even controlling smart home devices connected to your Google account.
For instance, you could say “OK Google, play my favorite playlist” to start your music, or “OK Google, set a reminder for my meeting at 3 PM” to manage your schedule. The integration of voice commands can make Chromebooks more intuitive and user-friendly, catering to a wide range of users, including those with accessibility needs.
Moreover, the potential for third-party app integration is immense. Developers could create applications that respond to specific voice commands, further expanding the functionality of Chromebooks. This could lead to a more seamless and integrated user experience, where voice commands become a natural part of interacting with technology.
Source: François Beaufort
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