Google has lately updated its Google app and a code in the app hints that the search company is working to make "OK, Google" work without Internet connection.
OK, Google is a voice command that is used for activating Google Now voice search on Android devices such as smartphones using an Internet connection. If connection is lost then users will not be able to access OK, Google.
"You can use your voice on the Google app or Chrome to do things like search, get directions, and create reminders," per Google's support page.
However, an Android Police report suggests that the feature may soon be available offline.
"Some new text in the app makes clear references to using voice commands to take action even without an active connection to the Internet. Based on these strings, it looks like a card will pop up with 'Offline voice tips' including notes about commands that are available," per Android Police.
The Android Police report suggests that the list of offline voice commands remains very limited that includes only: "make a call," "send a text," "play some music," and "turn on Wi-Fi." It is not clear if the commands will work if the strings are rephrased such as enable Wi-Fi. While OK, Google may start with limited offline voice commands, it is highly likely that more strings will be added in the future.
The app code also suggests that some other features may soon be connected with voice commands like increasing the brightness of the screen, adjusting volume of the smartphone and more. These are some simple needs a user may want to adjust on a regular basis manually; however, linking it up with voice commands may offer better controls to users.
Google has not officially announced that OK, Google will soon get offline capabilities. An official release date for the updated feature remains unknown; however, customers will hope that OK, Google is accessible without Internet connection as soon as possible.
Many people use OK, Google on a regular basis and it remains to be seen how well the offline capability will be accepted by the users. However, customers will be happy that Google is at least working on the offline capability of Ok, Google.
Photo: Robert Scoble | Flickr
