Chrome’s Latest Updates Include New “OK Google” Voice Search Capabilities

Earlier this week, Google released new updates for Chrome OS devices, including new “hotwording” capabilities.

According to the announcement, the “Okay Google” voice search is now available on Chrome’s New Tab Page and Google.com (the US version only).

Darrell Etherington reported on TechCrunch that the new “Okay Google” voice search for Chrome works automatically, without requiring the user to click or do any other input prompts:

Users will need to enable it once and provide Chrome permission to user their computer’s mic if they haven’t already, but after that, it’s as simple as opening a new tab, navigating to Google.com and speaking the magic words followed by your search request.

With the new updates, Chrome OS Launcher now supports folders to organize apps, and includes new window controls with the return of the minimize button, and left-right tiling of windows via long-press on the maximize button.

Also, Google claims it will now be easier for Chrome users to get online in locations that provide wifi with the implementation of a new “captive portal detection” feature.

The announcement said Google had resolved a number of Chrome’s bug and security issues. The updates will be rolling out over the next several days on all Chrome OS devices – with the exception of ASUS Chromebox and Samsung Series 3 Chromebox.

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Amy Gesenhues

Amy Gesenhues was a senior editor for Third Door Media, covering the latest news and updates for Search Engine Land, Marketing Land and MarTech Today. From 2009 to 2012, she was an award-winning syndicated columnist for a number of daily newspapers from New York to Texas. With more than ten years of marketing management experience, she has contributed to a variety of traditional and online publications, including MarketingProfs, SoftwareCEO, and Sales and Marketing Management Magazine. Read more of Amy's articles.