Social Proof

How to use Google Speak

Speechify is the #1 audio reader in the world. Get through books, docs, articles, PDFs, emails - anything you read - faster.
Try for free

Featured In

forbes logocbs logotime magazine logonew york times logowall street logo
Listen to this article with Speechify!
Speechify

Have you ever wished your phone could respond to your voice commands? With Google Speak, a feature of Google Assistant, this is not just possible, but...

Have you ever wished your phone could respond to your voice commands? With Google Speak, a feature of Google Assistant, this is not just possible, but also incredibly easy and efficient.

Whether you're using an Android phone, an iPhone, or a device with Chrome, Google Speak can transform your interaction with technology, making it more intuitive and hands-free.

Activating Google Speak on your device

To start using Google Speak, you need to have a Google account and an Android device, iPhone, or any device that supports Google Assistant.

The first step is to open the Google Assistant app on your device. If you're using an Android phone or tablet, you can easily access Google Assistant by saying "Hey Google" or by holding down the home button. 

For iPhone users, the Google Assistant app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store.

Once the app is open, you'll need to turn on Google Assistant if it's not already activated. 

This might require adjusting some permissions in your phone's settings to allow Google Assistant to access features like your microphone, notifications, and location.

Customizing your Google Speak experience

Google Speak is not just about voice commands; it's about personalizing your experience. You can choose the voice of Google Assistant, be it in English, Spanish, or Português, to make your interactions more enjoyable.

Additionally, you can adjust how sensitive Google Assistant is to the “Hey Google” command, ensuring that it responds only when you want it to.

For those who use Google Workspace, integrating Google Speak with your work account can streamline your workflow, allowing you to send emails through Gmail, schedule meetings, or even make phone calls using your Google Voice number.

The functionality extends to sending SMS and managing voicemails, making it a comprehensive tool for both personal and professional use.

Training Google Speak for better voice recognition

One of the key features of Google Speak is its ability to recognize your voice through Voice Match. This ensures that your device responds to your commands and not someone else's.

Training Google Speak is simple: just follow the prompts in the Google Assistant app to record your voice. This feature is particularly useful for those who rely on voice commands for making phone calls or sending text messages.

If you ever feel like Google Assistant is not recognizing your voice accurately, you can easily retrain the voice model in the app. This is especially handy if your voice changes due to a cold or if you're in a noisy environment.

Practical uses of Google Speak in daily life

Google Speak can be used in a variety of ways in everyday life. For instance, you can make hands-free phone calls or send text messages while driving, without ever needing to touch your cell phone.

It's also great for controlling smart home devices, setting reminders, or getting quick answers to questions.

For those who make international calls, Google Speak, combined with Google Voice, offers an affordable way to stay connected with friends and family abroad.

You can make calls to Canada or other countries at competitive rates, all through your internet connection, be it Wi-Fi or mobile data.

Troubleshooting common issues with Google Speak

While Google Speak is designed to be user-friendly, you might encounter some issues, such as the device not responding to the “Hey Google” command or problems with voice recognition.

One common solution is to check your internet connection, as Google Speak requires a stable connection to function properly. Additionally, ensure that all necessary permissions are granted in your device's settings.

If you're using a Google Voice account, make sure your Google Voice number is correctly linked to your device. This is crucial for functionalities like voicemail transcription or receiving notifications for missed calls.

Easily convert text to audio with Speechify Text to Speech

In addition to the convenience of Google Speak, consider exploring Speechify Text to Speech for an even more enhanced experience.

Speechify offers a unique and user-friendly way to convert written text into spoken words, making it perfect for those who prefer auditory learning or need assistance with reading.

Whether you're reviewing documents, browsing the web, or going through your emails, Speechify can read it out loud for you, complementing the voice command features of Google Speak.

Give Speechify Text to Speech a try and experience a new level of convenience in your daily digital interactions.

FAQs

How can I use Google Voice on my Windows computer?

To use Google Voice on a Windows computer, you need to download the Google Voice app or access it through a web browser.

Once installed or opened, sign in with your Google account, and you can start using Google Voice for making calls, sending texts, and managing voicemails.

It works seamlessly with your existing phone service, integrating VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) for enhanced communication.

Is there a tutorial available for first-time users of the Google Voice app on iOS?

Yes, there are several tutorials available for new users of the Google Voice app on iOS devices. 

These tutorials guide you through the setup process, including linking your phone number, configuring settings, and using key features like voicemail transcription and making international calls.

You can find these tutorials on the Google Voice help page or through various tech education platforms online.

Can I use Google Voice as an add-on with my existing mobile phone service provider?

Absolutely! Google Voice can be used as an add-on with your current mobile phone service provider. 

It allows you to have a separate phone number for VoIP service without changing your existing mobile phone number.

This feature is particularly useful for subscribers who want to keep their personal and professional communications separate.

Is it possible to link a landline number to Google Voice?

Yes, you can link a landline number to Google Voice. This feature enables you to manage calls and voicemails from your landline through the Google Voice app.

It's a convenient way to integrate traditional phone services with modern VoIP technology, offering more flexibility and control over your communications.

Cliff Weitzman

Cliff Weitzman

Cliff Weitzman is a dyslexia advocate and the CEO and founder of Speechify, the #1 text-to-speech app in the world, totaling over 100,000 5-star reviews and ranking first place in the App Store for the News & Magazines category. In 2017, Weitzman was named to the Forbes 30 under 30 list for his work making the internet more accessible to people with learning disabilities. Cliff Weitzman has been featured in EdSurge, Inc., PC Mag, Entrepreneur, Mashable, among other leading outlets.