Google Assistant is one of the best features included in the Google Pixel and Google Pixel XL. Unfortunately for most of us, the smart digital assistant was relegated to Google’s new Pixel line of smartphones; even the Nexus line of Google Smartphones missed out. But as of next week, that will no longer be true.
Later one this week, the Google Assistant will become available to smartphones running Android 6.0 Marshmallow and Android 7.0 Nougat. That accounts for nearly 30% of existing Android devices. The figure may not seem impressive but it’s still a colossal step forward when compared to the minuscule amount of Pixel and Pixel XL users.
As was reported earlier, the LG G6 will be the first smartphone outside of the Pixel family to be shipped with Google Assistant, something that was speculated a month ago. Other smartphones that can expect the update for Google Assistant include, but are not limited to, the Samsung Galaxy S7, LG V20 and HTC 10.
The Google Assistant will begin rolling out this week to English users in the U.S., followed by English in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, as well as German speakers in Germany. According to Google, more languages will be added over the coming year.
Smartphones are just a small step for Google’s grander plans. The Assistant is also coming to TVs and cars, and a few weeks ago it rolled out to Android Wear 2.0 smartwatches.
