Can Google Assistant make phone calls, and if so, what are the different ways I can initiate a call using Google Assistant on various devices like my phone, smart speaker (Google Home/Nest), and smart display? Are there any specific voice commands I should use for each device? Also, can Google Assistant make calls to specific contacts in my address book, or dial specific phone numbers I dictate? Finally, are there any limitations to Google Assistant’s calling capabilities, such as emergency calls or international calls, and are there any associated costs or required subscriptions?

Answer

Yes, Google Assistant can make phone calls.

How it Works:

  • Voice Command: You initiate a call using a voice command like "Hey Google, call [contact name]" or "Hey Google, call [phone number]".
  • Device: You can make calls using Google Assistant on a variety of devices, including:
    • Smartphones (Android and iOS via the Google Assistant app)
    • Smart Speakers (Google Home, Nest Mini, Nest Audio, etc.)
    • Smart Displays (Nest Hub, Nest Hub Max)
    • Smartwatches (Wear OS devices)
    • In-car systems (Android Auto, Google Assistant Driving Mode)
  • Contact Information: Google Assistant uses your phone’s contact list, if linked, to identify the person you want to call by name. If the contact has multiple phone numbers (e.g., mobile, work), it might ask you to specify which number to use.
  • Number Dialing: If you provide a phone number, Google Assistant dials that number directly.
  • Call Quality: Call quality depends on the device you’re using and the network connection.

Capabilities and Features:

  • Making Calls to Contacts: As mentioned, you can call people in your contact list.
  • Dialing Numbers: You can verbally provide a phone number for Google Assistant to dial.
  • Calling Businesses: You can ask Google Assistant to call local businesses. It can often find the phone number using Google Search. For example, "Hey Google, call the nearest pizza place."
  • Answering Incoming Calls: Some devices (like Google Nest Hub Max) can answer incoming calls using Google Assistant.
  • Caller ID: When making calls through Google Assistant, the recipient may see your phone number (if you’ve configured it to be displayed) or a generic Google Assistant number. Some features can mask your number for privacy.
  • Call Screening (on Pixel phones): On Pixel phones, Google Assistant can screen calls, asking the caller to identify themselves and the reason for calling. You can then decide whether to answer, send to voicemail, or mark as spam.
  • Hang Up: You can use voice commands to end a call, such as "Hey Google, hang up."
  • Call History: Call history initiated through Google Assistant may be logged within the Google Home app or on the device itself.
  • Emergency Calls: While Google Assistant can technically dial emergency numbers, it’s strongly discouraged to rely on it for emergency calls. Use a traditional phone whenever possible, as Google Assistant’s ability to connect to emergency services can be unreliable, and location information may not be accurately transmitted. Always prioritize direct dialing from a traditional phone line for emergencies.

Setup and Configuration:

  • Linking Accounts: You may need to link your Google account to the Google Assistant on your device.
  • Contact Access: Grant Google Assistant permission to access your contacts.
  • Voice Match (optional): Set up Voice Match to allow Google Assistant to recognize your voice and personalize the calling experience.
  • Personal Results: Enable personal results to allow Google Assistant to access your personal information, including your contacts.
  • Carrier Services: On some devices (especially phones), your mobile carrier might have settings related to Google Assistant calling features.

Limitations:

  • Emergency Calls: As stated above, avoid using Google Assistant for emergency calls.
  • Complex Interactions: Google Assistant might struggle with complex phone menus or automated systems.
  • Network Dependence: Google Assistant requires an internet connection to make calls.
  • Privacy Concerns: Be mindful of the privacy implications of allowing Google Assistant to access your contacts and call history.
  • International Calling: International calling capabilities might vary depending on your region and Google Assistant settings.
  • Speakerphone Quality: The quality of the speaker and microphone on your device will affect the call quality.