Jordan O'BrienInstallers who have specified a Sony TV with a 4K display and built-in Android software can now inform their clients of the availability of Google Assistant. That means users can now control smart home products through their TV, as well as queue up content using voice control.
Unlike the Google Home, which can be triggered through the ‘OK Google’ command, Google Assistant on the Sony TV will only listen to commands when users specifically press the microphone button on the remote. That’s in direct contrast to the Nvidia Shield, which can be configured to always be listening to commands.
“Sony’s goal is to provide our customers the Smart Home functionality they desire in the manner they choose. With the Google Assistant, Sony TV owners get all the answers and tasks they need done, just by using their voice,” says Mike Fasulo, president and COO of Sony Electronics.
“This software update is available today for those that already own, or plan to buy, a supported Sony 4K HDR television with Android TV – bringing new innovative technologies to our customers.”
With the Google Assistant, users can playback content or request to stream their favourite TV show from selected services such as YouTube and Netflix. With so much great content available, the Google Assistant makes it easy to find the perfect show or movie by providing a natural voice interface. For example, users can ask the Google Assistant for Netflix titles directly: “Play Stranger Things” and the Google Assistant will respond. On YouTube, users will be able to seamlessly look for new, popular, or highly rated content by simply asking the Google Assistant, and then using voice commands to play the selection. Users can stay engaged by asking the Google Assistant questions about the content being played.