A Word on Google Now
In case you’re new to Google Now, it’s Google’s version of the digital personal assistant. Similarly to Microsoft’s Cortana and Apple’s Siri, it can be activated via voice commands and used to do things such as call someone in your contacts list or give you directions. You can also dictate text messages, perform Internet searches, or set a reminder to pull your casserole out of the oven. Google Now isn’t exactly the same as its competitors, though. The intuitive app “learns” your habits and preferences and offers functionality based on that information. You can even create “cards” with customized updates from your favorite sites and subjects.

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About that Sub-Widget
The new transparent sub-widget will be located right below the search widget. Since it’s in beta testing mode, it’s not automatically available on all Android devices. If you want to check it out before the full release, you have to be a member of Google Beta. To do so, visit the Google Play store and find the Google app. Look for the option to join the beta channel. Once you do, you’ll receive any updates Google is testing or launching so you can get in on new releases like the Now sub-widget. Once enabled, the sub-widget makes it so you don’t have to swipe to the Now pane to access your Google Now features. Essentially an extension of Now, the sub-widget gives you instant access to relevant Now information like expected commute time or real-time sports updates. Google will continue to tweak the sub-widget and add more functionality before its official release.

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Google Now recognizes repeated actions that are performed on a device to display more relevant information to the user in the form of “cards.” It also uses Google’s Knowledge Graph system to assemble detailed search results. Google Now is a useful tool for all Google users. Here are a few of the key functions and commands to familiarize yourself with.

OK, Google.

By first saying “OK, Google” to your Android device, you can then follow that up with a question or task that your Google app will then perform (i.e. “OK, Google, what’s today’s weather?” to which Google will provide the day’s forecast).

You can also just tap the microphone button on the Google search bar. If this isn’t working for you, make sure that your “Google Now” function is enabled, which can be done by going to the Google Now app, then “Menu > Settings > Voice > OK Google.”

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Here are a few commands that can now be done, and questions that can be asked:

• Open [app name]. For example, if you say “Open Gmail,” it will automatically open the Gmail app for you.
• Text or Send Text to [Contact Name]. Easily send a birthday text to your mom just by saying it into your phone!
• Take a Picture. Self-explanatory. Saying “Take Photo” also works.
• “How old is [Michael Jordan]?” Google Now will search Google to provide you with the answer based on web searches.
• “What’s the tip for [65 dollars]?” Google Now will use the calculator function on Google to give you the correct answer.
• Create a Calendar Event: [Lunch with Patricia, Tuesday at 2:00 PM]. Your Google Calendar will be utilized to save this event.
• “Where’s my package?” If you have any tracking information saved in your Gmail account, Google Now will pull up this information for you.
• Post to Twitter. Send out important Tweets to all of your followers with just the sound of your voice!

These are just a few samples of the many commands that Google Now recognizes. If you have an Android device, try out this function; it’s handy, fun, and can even help you stay organized. While you’re busy giving Google a workout, make sure that your phone isn’t getting too much heat — download PSafe Total for free today.

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