Google Home can now handle three voice requests in one go
On and on and on...
Google has just revealed that its Google Home smart speaker line-up can now respond to three voice commands in one go – providing the commands are made distinct by using the word "and" to join them.
So, for instance, you could say "OK Google, turn on the bedroom lights and raise the thermostat temperature and play songs by The Stooges", and Google Assistant (which provided the brains behind the devices) then gets to work to change the lighting, temperature and line up some tunes.
It means that if you own a Google Home smart speaker, you may soon find you're using the word "and" more than you ever have before.
- Google Home review
- Need something bigger? Check out the Google Max review
- Or get a screen and speaker with the Google Home Hub
English first
The new ability is a progression from Google Home's understanding of two commands at once. But, you'll only initially be able to make use of it in predominantly English-speaking territories, including the US, UK, Canada and Australia.
However, Google promises that more languages will be supported in time.
While peppering our sentences with multiple "ands" sounds a bit weird, it does bring us a step closer to natural language commands, which will make interacting with voice assistants more like conversing with humans.
- The best Google Home deals: cheap help from Google's assistant
Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox
Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more.
Gerald is Editor-in-Chief of iMore.com. Previously he was the Executive Editor for TechRadar, taking care of the site's home cinema, gaming, smart home, entertainment and audio output. He loves gaming, but don't expect him to play with you unless your console is hooked up to a 4K HDR screen and a 7.1 surround system. Before TechRadar, Gerald was Editor of Gizmodo UK. He is also the author of 'Get Technology: Upgrade Your Future', published by Aurum Press.