Google Assistant is a popular digital helper that is available on both Android and iOS devices and in various smart speakers and smart displays. While Google Assistant offers many features and can help with day-to-day tasks, there are privacy concerns and annoyances that can affect the user experience. To address these issues, users can make adjustments to their Google Assistant settings. One way to enhance privacy is to update voice recording settings, including opting out of saving audio recordings and manually deleting them. Users can also adjust privacy settings in the Google Home app to control how long voice recordings are saved.
Another way to improve the Google Assistant experience is to turn off the continued conversation feature, which allows Google to listen for follow-up questions without the user having to say “Hey, Google” a second time. This feature can be toggled off in the Home app settings. Users can also adjust the sensitivity of the wake word “Hey, Google” to prevent accidental wake-ups of smart speakers. By adjusting the sensitivity settings in the Google Home app, users can customize how well Google Assistant responds to the wake word.
For users of Google-enabled smart displays like the Nest Hub Max, Lenovo Smart Display, or JBL Link View, it is important to manage camera settings for privacy and security. Users can disable the camera and microphone on devices like the Nest Hub Max by flipping a physical switch or using a software toggle. For added security, users can cover the camera with a webcam cover when not in use. Additionally, resetting activity controls in the Google Home app allows users to manage the information Google gathers from their online and mobile app activity, offering more control over privacy settings.
Overall, making adjustments to Google Assistant settings can enhance the user experience and address privacy concerns. By updating voice recording settings, turning off features like continued conversation, adjusting wake word sensitivity, managing camera settings on smart displays, and resetting activity controls, users can customize their Google Assistant experience to suit their preferences and ensure their data remains secure. With these simple adjustments, users can enjoy the convenience and functionality of Google Assistant while maintaining control over their privacy and security settings.
