Google Assistant’s new quick phrases feature is starting to appear on some phones running the Android 12 beta, according to XDA Developers. That means people can soon use certain voice commands without having to say “Hey, Google” first.
Once the feature rolls out, it can be enabled in Google Assistant’s settings. Right now, it lets users answer calls and snooze alarms just by saying one-word commands like “Answer,” “Stop,” “Decline,” and “Snooze.” More commands are reportedly on the way for things like timers, reminders, media controls, and to-do lists.
There were hints Google was working to remove “Hey, Google” for some voice commands back in April. At the time, many users reported finding a mysterious “voice shortcuts” page in their Google Assistant settings, which led to documents for a feature codenamed “Guacamole.” The feature has since been rebranded as quick phrases.
While eliminating the “Hey, Google” from voice commands is more efficient, there is a downside. When the feature is enabled, Google warns that calls may connect accidentally due to false positives, according to XDA Developers. If you or someone close to you says “answer” while the phone is ringing, there’s a chance Google Assistant will execute the command whether you’re ready for the call or not. You’ve been warned.
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