Jordan O'BrienLG has become the first manufacturer to offer native Google Assistant support on its TVs, without using the Android TV OS. Support for Google’s AI is rolling out now for those with a 2018 OLED or Super UHD TV from the South Korean electronics manufacturer.
Google Assistant support for LG’s 2018 ThinQ line-up was revealed earlier this year at CES, although with the sets now beginning to flood the market, the company has only just switched it on. That means installers who have purchased a Signature W8, C8, E8 or B8 OLED, or SK9500, SK9000 or SK8000 Super UHD TV for a recent project, will be able to help their customers get started with the Google Assistant.
The Google Assistant works on LG’s TVs similarly to how it works on Android TV devices, smartphones, or the Google Home smart speaker. That means users can check the weather, find answers to burning questions, or control smart home products. It’s also possible to control the TV’s native functions, such as changing the channel, turning the TV off at a set time, or searching for content.
Unlike on other devices, the Google Assistant cannot be activated using a wake word, like ‘OK Google’. Instead, users will need to grab the remote control and press the mic button to get the Google Assistant to function.