We use Google for everything from email to [maps](https://www.mondo.co.za/tech-news/article/google-maps-features-you-didnt-know-existed-) and cloud storage, but did you know you can do so much more with Google Assistant? Google Assistant is Google’s virtual assistant built into almost all Android phones and tablets. This voice activated assistant is a more convenient way of using your smartphone. It can help with setting alarms or even telling jokes, well dad jokes for the most part, but still. If you’re ready to say “Hey Google”, here are 5 of the top features of Google Assistant:
__Find Your Phone__
If you’ve lost your phone, Google assistant can help locate it. As long as the device is switched on, signed in to your Google Account and connected to the internet, Google Assistant can help you find your device. Simply say “Find my phone” and the Google Assistant will ring the device for you. The best part? This even works if the device is on “Do Not Disturb”.
__Check Facebook Notifications__
Want to check your Facebook without getting distracted by your newsfeed? Google Assistant can open up your Facebook notifications immediately (but then you might miss that new trending meme).
__Open apps__
Instead of scrolling through multiple screens on your device, Google Assistant can be asked to open an app for you. Just say “Hey Google, open Instagram”.
__Create a list__
How often have you said to yourself that you need to remember to do something or buy something? Now you can use Google Assistant to keep track of your shopping list and your to-do list. Just be sure to create these lists (simply say, “create a list”) before you start adding items to them.
__Play a video on a smart TV__
If your streaming accounts are linked to your smart TV, Google Assistant can be used to play a video directly on the TV. Just say “Hey Google, play Modern Family on Netflix”.
