How to use your favorite smart assistant on your computer

Smart assistants are now indispensable tools, extending beyond smartphones and smart speakers to seamlessly integrate with your computer. This guide covers setting up Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Cortana (Windows), and Siri (macOS) on your desktop or laptop. While we won't delve into every command, we'll highlight common functionalities.

Amazon Alexa

For Windows, download the official Amazon Alexa app. A recent update enables hands-free operation via the "Hey, Alexa" wake word. After installation and Amazon account login, grant microphone access for voice control. Most commands familiar from Amazon Echo devices work here, including music playback, weather checks, and internet searches.

macOS lacks an official Alexa app, but Reverb (a free Mac App Store app) offers a viable alternative. While it requires manual activation (clicking the app icon before speaking), it provides basic Alexa functionality. Note that Reverb has limitations, such as lacking radio and music support.

Alternatively, use the web-based Alexa in the Browser (created by Sam Machin). After logging in and granting microphone access, click within the browser window to activate voice commands. Similar to Reverb, music and radio playback are unavailable.

Google Assistant

Currently, a fully functional Google Assistant desktop app for Windows and macOS is unavailable. Google primarily focuses on Chrome OS integration.

However, you can use a web browser's microphone icon to access a limited Google Assistant experience. Grant microphone access to issue voice commands (e.g., weather queries, factual questions). Google account login enhances functionality, enabling access to calendar events and photos. Remember, this is essentially voice-controlled Google Search, not the full Google Assistant; features like music streaming and smart home control are absent.

Windows and Cortana

Windows' built-in Cortana is accessible via the taskbar button (next to the search box). Commands can be spoken or typed. Enable "Hey, Cortana" for hands-free operation in Windows Settings > Cortana > Talk to Cortana. You can also configure keyboard shortcuts and lock screen access. Cortana controls various computer functions (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, app launching). Cortana is exclusive to Windows; no web or other platform access exists.

macOS and Siri

Siri is integrated into macOS, accessible via the menu bar icon. Use it as you would on an iPhone or iPad. Configure Siri settings via Apple Menu > System Preferences > Siri, enabling/disabling "Hey, Siri," lock screen access, keyboard shortcuts, and voice responses. Siri controls various macOS functions (Bluetooth, volume, brightness, disk space) and launches applications. Siri is currently limited to Apple devices and ecosystems.

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