The phrase, "OK Google," used to be restricted to Google Glass wearers ruminating on their next voice command. Now, the tech conversation starter goes main stream as Chrome users can issue their laptops or tablets voice commands beginning with the trigger, "Ok Google," PC Magazine reported.
The technology is relatively straightforward and free to download, according to PC Magazine. Once the Google Voice Search Hotword (beta) is set up, users must adjust internet settings and allow Chrome access to their microphones. From there, a "Say OK Google" ticker will appear on the far right side of the search bar. Saying "Ok Google" instantaneously activates a new screen with a red microphone and the command, "Speak Now." Now is the time to ask one's question, which will appear typed in the search bar. Search results appear as usual on the next screen while a "Siri" voice reads out the most relevant result. In addition to answering simple questions, like "how many pounds are in a kilogram?" users can also ask their computers to set reminders and timers. See video at the end of the article for visual instructions.
For quick typists not worried about carpel tunnel syndrome, Google Voice Search Hotword is really only useful when one's hands are tied. Otherwise, it's probably easier to input the command by one's self. In its blog post (on Google +), Google imagines a Thanksgiving Day scene where the technology could come in "handy":
"It's that time of year... the in-laws are coming for a tasty Turkey Day dinner," the blog read. "You're elbow-deep in your turkey, ready to start the stuffing and you need to quickly calculate how many ounces of walnuts are in a cup. This year, rather than stopping midway through to wash your hands and type in a search, you can just speak to your laptop: "Ok Google, how many ounces are in one cup?" Et voila, the cooking can go on. You can also say "Ok Google, set a timer for 30 minutes" so you don't forget to baste that turkey."
The voice technology is also available on mobile devices such as Motorola Droids, the Moto X, and the Nexus 5, according to PC Magazine.
