Google rumored to be implementing hands-free searching across all Android devices

June 2, 2014

Google has been consistently expanding its Search application since the introduction of Google Now. It seems as though the company is interested in implementing an “always on” listening mode so that users can access relevant information without looking at or touching his or her device, being referred to as Android Eyes Free, internally.

We have seen this type of functionality before in the Moto X and Verizon’s DROID line. However, Motorola’s implementation is only accessible via the command “OK Google Now”. Google is likely to take this a step further, allowing users to use a gesture or Bluetooth connected device to launch searches. This would be perfect for in-car searches because there will undoubtedly be music playing in the background, making it difficult for the phone to hear you properly.

While this type of functionality is convenient in a lot of different ways, it seems as though Google is really aiming at the in-car convenience. Unfortunately, like Motorola’s devices, it seems as though Google still won’t be able to audibly deliver search results that don’t already have a speech result in Google Now. However, it seems as though Google will implement a “read later” function for results that point to web content.

Taking another page from Motorola’s book, Google is looking to add functionality to allow the user to automatically send responses by simply speaking the message. It will be implemented slightly different, as it will automatically activate some actions without you having to explicitly tell it to. It seems as though Google is focusing intently on the whole process being as distraction-free as possible. In fact, the more information that is required from the user, such as message content, the simpler the interface becomes.

It is also apparent that Google is addressing the fact that not all devices will be optimized to use “always on” listening mode like Motorola’s devices. Thanks to the X8 computing system on board the Moto X and DROID devices, they are able to use this functionality while sipping battery juice. Since most phones don’t have this type of processor, they will have to be plugged in for it to function with the screen off.

Basically speaking, those who have implemented Motorola’s devices and features into their everyday lives are not likely to be impressed by this new functionality. However, implementing this across all Android devices will undoubtedly prove beneficial to the ecosystem.

source: Android Police

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