Google Brings AI to Your Home

First Apple got you to say, “Hey Siri,” then Amazon did the same with Alexa and now Google joins the club. The world’s No. 1 search engine brings the power of artificial intelligence to the masses with Google Home, a voice-controlled smart speaker that can play music, organize your schedule and order a pizza.

It can’t do what J.A.R.V.I.S. can in Iron Man, but the device is pretty impressive with its features and one can easily see its potential. One you set it up, simply say, “OK Google,” and give a command, like setting an alarm. Things you would normally do on your smartphone become hands-free, whether it’s checking the score of a game, playing the radio or turning up the thermostat.

The A.I. technology is also smart enough for practical use. For example, if you ask about the score for the NBA Finals and then ask who’s leading in baskets, Google knows the second question is referring to the first. It’s capable of recognizing a variety of voices and accents, though deeper voices tend to work better when music is playing.

The only drawback would be concerns over privacy. Voice activation means the device is always listening, in addition to gathering information from all your Google accounts and activities. It has a mute button, but to get the full experience you need to have it on all the time.