Google Assistant’s Ambient Mode Will Turn Your Android Devices Into A Smart Display

What started out as smart speakers quickly evolved into what we know as smart displays. These are essentially smart speakers that come with a built-in display which can be used for video calls, watching videos, seeing who’s at the front door, and more. However, one of the downsides to such devices is that you’ll need to purchase it.

If you don’t relish the idea of having to spend more money, you’re in luck because at IFA 2019, Google has announced a new feature coming to Google Assistant which the company is calling “Ambient Mode”. Basically, what this does is that it will take your Android device, like a smartphone or tablet, and turn it into a ready-to-go smart display.

According to Google, “Google Assistant’s Ambient Mode is a new visual overview that makes it easier to see notifications and reminders, start a playlist and control smart home devices on the lockscreen of your device. When you’re done, your screen will turn into a personal digital photo frame linked to your Google Photos account to add another personal touch.”

Unfortunately, the feature won’t be available across all Android devices just yet. According to Google, the devices that will be supporting Ambient Mode at launch include the upcoming  Lenovo Smart Tab M8 HD, Lenovo Yoga Smart Tab, and the newly-announced Nokia 7.2 and Nokia 6.2 smartphones.

Tyler Lee
Categories: Gadgets
Tags: Android, Google, Google Assistant, IFA, IFA 2019