Install and Set Up the Google Assistant App
Before we dive in, verify Siri is enabled on your phone. In most cases, Siri is on by default, but if you need to enable it, open Settings > Siri & Search and then toggle on the Listen for “Hey Siri” slider.
Enable ‘Hey Siri, Hey Google’
Next, enable a Siri shortcut phrase that allows you to open the Google Assistant app with that phrase.
What You Can Ask Google Assistant on iPhone
In the Google Assistant app, either tap the microphone icon to talk to the app or tap the keyboard icon and type your question. When you start the app with a spoken “Hey Siri, Key Google” command, Assistant listens for your request by default. In the lower-right, tap the compass icon to see and search through possible Google Assistant actions. Or, ask Assistant, “What can Google Assistant do?”
Have Google Assistant Find Your Phone
Notably, Google Assistant can help you find your lost iPhone. Say, “Hey Google, find my phone” to any Google Home-enabled device, such as a smart display or Nest smart speaker. Your iPhone will emit a custom sound even if it’s on silent mode. To enable this capability, you’ll need to go to the Google Home app and opt into accepting notifications.
Configure Routines
Google Assistant also works with any Google Home devices you have configured. From the Assistant app, control specific devices or configure routines to trigger several actions at once with a single command. For example, configure a sunrise or sunset routine for your Google Home devices, such as having your living room lights turn on at sundown.
More Google Assistant Capabilities
Open other Google apps, such as Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Maps, from within Google Assistant (if you have these apps on your iPhone). Ask Assistant to speak the latest news or weather, perform basic calculations, or play music. Of course, Google Assistant excels at performing Google searches by voice. So sports scores, recipes, nearby restaurants, stores, or any search you might typically type can instead be searched with a spoken request.
