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To enable Google Assistant on a Samsung Galaxy phone or tablet, select Google as the device’s digital assistant, then choose Google Assistant specifically if that is the experience you want. Set up a launch method separately: a long press of the Side button or the “Hey Google” voice command. Samsung’s menu labels can vary by model and software version.
Set Google as your Galaxy’s default digital assistant
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Open Settings.
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Tap Apps, then Choose default apps.
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Tap Digital assistant app, then tap the digital-assistant choice shown on the next screen.
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Select Google.
Samsung documents this route for changing the default assistant on Galaxy phones and tablets. Menu names and availability can differ by device, carrier, and software version. If you cannot find a label, search Settings for “digital assistant app.” See Samsung’s guide to changing the device assistant app.
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Selecting Google as the default assistant app and choosing Google Assistant as the specific experience may be separate steps. Samsung’s documented Galaxy route is Settings > Google services > All services > Search, Assistant & Voice > Google Assistant > Digital assistant from Google > Google Assistant. The Google-services menus can vary; use Settings search if the path does not match your phone. Samsung’s Google Assistant setup instructions cover this selection.
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- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
If Gemini opens instead, Google says to open the Gemini app, tap the profile menu, and choose Switch to Google Assistant. Google’s app hosts Gemini and digital-assistant capabilities on Android, and the primary assistant can be changed in device settings. Follow the Gemini switching instructions if the app’s menu differs.
Launch Assistant with the Side button
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Open Settings > Advanced features > Side button > Long press.
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Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165F/DS Factory Unlocked, 6.7", Dual SIM, 50MP Triple Camera (Case Bundle), Black- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
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Choose Digital assistant.
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Tap the settings icon beside that option and select Google.
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This assigns the button action separately from choosing the default assistant. Samsung notes that available settings depend on the device and software version; consult its Galaxy Assistant instructions if the controls are not shown.
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- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
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- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
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Set up “Hey Google” voice activation
Open the Google Assistant or Google app’s Voice Match settings and follow the on-screen prompts to enable voice activation. Voice Match setup is separate from the default-assistant choice. If a spoken “Hey Google” command does nothing, first confirm that Google or Google Assistant is selected as intended, then complete Voice Match setup. Google’s Assistant setup guide explains activation; on Android 8.0 and later, Assistant can also respond while the device is locked after “Hey Google” when the relevant settings allow it.
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Samsung states that Google Assistant is supported on Galaxy phones and tablets running Android 5.0 or higher. That is a compatibility baseline, not a guarantee that every feature or menu is available on every model, software version, or in every region. Samsung’s Galaxy Gemini guidance also reflects that device options vary.
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Google says Assistant interactions are saved to your Google Account when Web & App Activity is on. Moving back from Gemini does not automatically delete information saved in Gemini Apps Activity. Review your Google Account activity controls if you want to manage either history; Google explains the distinction in its Gemini account and activity guidance.
Quick Recap
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- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
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