Update: The Google Assistant for iPhone is now available on the US App Store.
As previously rumored, Google today announced during its I/O developer conference that its Assistant platform is coming to iOS. The virtual assistant will arrive soon as a standalone app for iPhone, initially for users in the US. Previously the Siri competitor was only available through its Allo messaging app and for Android and Google Home devices.
Google also announced some other improvements for Assistant today including the ability to type with assistant on phones. The company noted that many people don’t want to speak to their virtual assistants in public spaces, for example, and so the typing feature will allow them to interact with the platform without having to use voice commands.
Some things your Assistant can help with:
- Make quick phone calls (e.g. “Call Mom.”)
- Send text messages (e.g. “Text my bestie.”)
- Send emails (e.g. “Email your boss the latest TPS report.”)
- Set reminders (e.g. “Remind me to buy a birthday gift for Sarah.”)
- Set calendar events (e.g. “Set a calendar event for dinner with Charlie tomorrow from 7-9.”)
- Play music (e.g. “Play Jazz music on Youtube.”)
- Navigate to places (e.g. “Get me directions home.”)
- Ask it anything (e.g. “Will I need an umbrella today?”)
In addition, Google announced that Google Lens will have Assistant integration, allowing users to take a photo at real world items to get information via Assistant.
Check out our roundup of everything Google announced at I/O today for more.
