Google now allows users to buy movie tickets using Assistant, thanks to a partnership with Fandango. The process is relatively easy — first, users just have to ask Assistant to pull showtimes for a particular film, specify how many tickets they want, and then choose seats.
Buy Movie Tickets With Google Assistant
Users can also begin by saying "Hey Google, get me tickets for ..." followed by the movie title, and Google will give the showtimes for the film. Alternatively, for those who aren't sure what to watch, they can just ask Assistant for "showtimes near me," and Google will provide a list of films playing at theaters near the user's location. They can also ask for more information about the film right there, or ask Assistant to show a trailer.
Another great thing about this feature is that users can book tickets in advance for films not showing yet. In Google's example, the user purchases tickets to Solo: A Star Wars Story, which doesn't premiere until later this month.
Each step of the process is done right inside Assistant using voice commands, except, of course, choosing the seats.
This feature is something that's been available on Siri for a long time, but unlike Apple, Google allows users to purchase movie tickets without downloading the standalone Fandango app.
For now, the feature is only available on Google Assistant for Android phones, but TechCrunch notes it's going to roll out on iOS devices later this year.
As Search Engine Land speculates, Google will make more announcements like this, expanding Assistant's ability to make bookings or reservations with a number of services purely via voice commands. It makes sense for Google to go this route, especially with the steady growth of its Home ecosystem. The voice assistant competition continues to heat up, with Google leading in mobile and Amazon leading in the smart speaker space. Siri, meanwhile, is still stumbling.
Star Wars Day
In honor of May 4, or better known as Star Wars Day, Google is having a massive sale in the Play Store. There are bundles and sales on apps, including Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes, Star Wars: Commander, and Star Wars Pinball 6, among others. Some audiobooks and comic books related to the franchise are discounted as well.
Finally, Google has a new Easter egg right within Assistant just for Star Wars diehards: see what happens when you say, "May the 4th be with you." Hint: Chewbacca.
