Google Assistant has privacy-conscious guest mode, this is how you set it

Google wants to increase the privacy of users with the guest mode for its smart display and smart speakers. This guest mode is available in the Dutch language and in this article you will find out how this function works.

Guest mode brings more privacy

If guest mode is enabled on these devices, Google Assistant interactions will not be saved to your Google Account. In addition, audio recordings of voice commands are automatically deleted. Google states that this guest mode is in addition to other privacy-preserving measures such as deleting a conversation with the Google Assistant via a voice command.

Google adds: “In guest mode, you can enjoy popular features such as ask questions, control smart home devices, set timers and play music. Your device will not display any personal results, such as your calendar entries or contacts, until you turn off the mode.”

Enable guest mode

To enable or disable guest mode on smart speakers or displays such as the Nest Audio and Nest Hub, say the following:

• Hey Google, turn on guest mode
• Hey Google, turn off guest mode

Once guest mode is enabled, the device will play a tune and you will see a guest icon on the screen. If you are not sure whether guest mode is on, you can ask the device: “Is guest mode on?” Guest mode will remain enabled until you choose to disable it. Disabling this mode will return you to your full, personalized Google Assistant experience.

Guest mode can be useful if someone is visiting and you don’t want them to access past searches or see what’s on your calendar. The guest mode is not a real incognito mode, because access to, for example, music streaming and custom routines is still possible. In addition, the guest mode can be switched off again with a voice command.

What do you think of this privacy option from Google? Are you going to use it? Let us know in the comments.

Original Publication Date: January 14, 2021 / Republished: July 9, 2021

Do you have any tips or ideas?

This week it is theme week on Androidworld and it is all about smarthome for beginners. You can expect everything from us in the field of Android and smarthome. From apps to WiFi cameras, from tips to handy hacks. In the side menu on the right and also on this page on Androidworld you will find all articles of this theme week. This way you have all the tips easily at hand.

Androidworld is the largest Android community in the Netherlands and Belgium. So we do this together! Do you have a question about the topic we discuss during the theme week or do you have ideas or tips? Let us know in the comments below this article. You can also email us at this email address or leave a message on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. In addition, you can ask us questions via this Telegram group or this Signal group. Would you rather send one of the editors a tip? Then you can!

Do you want to stay informed about our theme weeks? Then download our Android app and follow us on Telegram and Twitter. Also check our AW Community for an overview of the most popular AW members.