Soon, you could control Samsung TVs via Google Assistant, Alexa
For years, Samsung has been pushing its Bixby voice assistant on TVs, phones, and other smart devices. The assistant is pretty good, but the fact is, Google Assistant and Amazon's Alexa are way better at handling queries. They have also been adopted by millions, something that has now prompted Samsung to open its TV systems to the two voice assistants. Here's more.
Call Google Assistant or Alexa to control TVs
With the latest feature, all of Samsung's upcoming TVs will respond to commands issued via Google Assistant and Alexa. This means users would be able to say the trigger phrase for their assistant, like 'Alexa' or 'Hey Google', and control their Samsung TVs. They would be able to change channels, adjust volume, switch between inputs, or even launch apps like Netflix or Prime Video.
Here's an example of what you could say
To use the assistants, you could say things like 'Alexa, turn on the TV' or 'Hey Google, launch Netflix'. The smart speaker will then take this command and direct the TV to deliver the action.
However, Bixby is not going anywhere
Having said that, it is important to note that these capabilities would only work when you'll have an external Google Assistant or Alexa-powered device. Samsung has no plans to offer tight integration with the two assistants and ditch Bixby. Meaning, Google Assistant and Alexa would offer basic smart functions, while Bixby will stay on TV remotes, offering voice-controlled access to deeper, more advanced capabilities.
And, what about old Samsung TVs?
Samsung's announcement indicated that Google Assistant and Alexa support would be available on its 2019 TV lineup. However, CNET reported that representatives from the company have said the feature might be launched for older smart TVs as well, through a future update. Still, details are nascent and there's no word on when or for which models that might happen.
