Have you been thinking of using Google Assistant on your Windows 10 PC but haven't quite figured out how to do it yet? We know Cortana is available by default on your Windows machine but if you are a Google fan, you definitely need a way to access your personal assistant directly from the PC.
Even though there’s no official Windows app for Google Assistant, we have compiled a useful list with plenty of workarounds so that you can make the most out of your personal assistant from your preferred device.
Option 1: Use the Unofficial App
Introducing the Unofficial Google Assistant Desktop Client by Melvin Abraham
The demand for having a Windows desktop version of Google Assistant reached its peak and that’s where Melvin Abraham stepped in and developed an unofficial client that runs on your Windows 10 PC.
Features and drawbacks
The unofficial app lets you perform just about any task you would normally use Google Assistant for. For instance, you can check the news or the weather forecast, or simply manage and control your smart home devices straight from your computer.
The app gives you more flexibility when it comes to customization. It includes a night theme mode and auto-scaling options, features that are not available in the native Google Assistant app.
Although the unofficial app works smoothly on Windows machines, there still are a few drawbacks and missing features. The major downside is that you can’t use “Hey, Google” to wake up the virtual assistant. Instead, you need to use a keyboard shortcut that you can configure in the settings menu.
Settings
You can adjust the settings so that after being called up, the assistant will automatically listen to you without any interruptions.
There currently isn’t any support for Google Assistant Routines or music streaming platforms like Spotify. However, the unofficial app is free open-source software with many contributors constantly working on improvements.
Being under continuous development, it’s worth checking the release notes on GitHub regularly and always get the latest updates.
How to install Google Assistant on a PC
To get started, download the latest version of the desktop client from Github here. Before installing it, make sure you have access to your existing Google Cloud account or, if needed, sign up for a new one.
The installation might be a bit tricky as it requires some configuration with Google Assistant API but there’s a detailed wiki page on how to properly set it up. You can check it out here.
Google Cloud
To set up the unofficial Google Assistant desktop client, you have to create a new project in the Google Actions Console and register your device model. Then enable the Google Assistant API in the Cloud Console and configure the consent screen.
Once this is done, continue by setting the authentication within the app to generate a custom key or token. You will need the custom token when logging into the unofficial Google Assistant app for the first time.
Within 10-15 minutes you can be all set and have your favorite virtual assistant up and running directly from your Windows 10 PC. If you get stuck, watch the video below and follow the instructions there.
How to uninstall Google Assistant on a PC
Uninstalling the unofficial Google Assistant is as easy as removing any other program from your computer. Just go to Add or Remove Programs in the Windows settings menu, search for Google Assistant and click on the Uninstall button. Follow the on-screen instructions in the uninstall wizard and it’s done.
Now, you will need to go back to the Google Actions Console and remove the project you created during the installation.
That’s because you don’t want to leave an open end of the application out there. Locate the project in the console and once you open it you can click on Project Settings and hit the Delete project button. Simple as that.
Option 2: Use an Android emulator
Install with Bluestacks emulator
An Android emulator is a third-party application that runs on Windows operating systems and simulates Android features so that you can enjoy them directly on your computer rather than on your phone.
Using an emulator to reproduce the Android environment on your Windows 10 PC is a great option, particularly if you want to get full access to Google Assistant. One of the most popular choices is the Bluestacks emulator, which can be downloaded and installed for free.
Installing Bluestacks on your Windows machine not only allows you to access Google Assistant but also your favorite Android games and apps. You can have them all directly on your PC or laptop. Read on to see how easy it is to install and set it up.
Installation and setup
Unlike other installations, Bluestacks comes with a simplified installation process that avoids complicated steps. Once you have downloaded the installer, launch the file and follow the on-screen instructions. Since Bluestacks requires access to your microphone and speakers, make sure your audio devices are enabled and ready to go.
Once the installation is complete, launch Bluestacks by double-clicking on the desktop icon. Now you will be asked to sign in with your Google account.
The next step is to go to the Google Play Store and search for Google Assistant. Install it just like you normally would from your Android smartphone. Launch the app and you’re all set. Check if it’s working properly by giving some commands.
Option 3: Use a Chromebook / Pixelbook!
Enable the Google Assistant
If you own a Chromebook or a Pixelbook, then you’re all sorted. Chromebooks and Pixelbooks have native support for Android apps which makes it easier to enable Google Assistant and make use of its functionalities. No third-party solutions involved!
On your Chromebook, go to Settings and select Google Assistant from the Search and Assistant tab. You will see a blue button next to it that indicates whether the assistant is enabled or not. Make sure the button is on. This will let you interact with Google Assistant through voice commands.
You can adjust other settings like your preferred way of accessing Google Assistant. You can normally call it by simply saying “OK Google” but this option can be turned off in some situations to save battery.
Based on your preferences, adjust any other settings like allowing the Google Assistant to display notifications or other relevant info.
Common Questions Relating to Google Assistant for PC & Windows 10
Google Assistant is currently not supported on Windows operating systems. But if you don’t fancy Cortana that much and would like to shift to Google Assistant on your Windows 10 PC, you have plenty of workarounds to achieve that.
You can install the unofficial Google Assistant app for desktop developed by Melvin Abraham or use an Android emulator like Bluestacks.
Whichever you choose, you can rest assured that it’s going to work smoothly and you will be able to carry out the same tasks from within your Windows 10 environment.
Go through our guide to see how easy it is to have it up and running in no time.
The Verdict
Since there is no official Windows app for Google Assistant, we have come up with a few alternatives to access your favorite virtual assistant on a PC.
You can use an Android emulator to install Google Assistant or use the unofficial app. Both ways work great and let you go on with your usual tasks from the comfort of your desktop or laptop.