Yes, Google Home Assistant can send quick text messages, but its functionality depends on the device you’re using and the messaging app linked to Google Assistant.

While smart speakers like the Google Nest Hub or Google Home can’t send text messages directly, you can use Google Assistant on your smartphone to send messages hands-free.

Here’s how to send quick text messages using Google Home Assistant.

Step 1: Set Up Messaging Services

To send text messages, ensure Google Assistant is set up to access your preferred messaging app.

For Standard Text Messages (SMS):

1. Enable Google Assistant on Your Smartphone:
   • Open Google Assistant on your Android phone or iPhone.
   • Ensure the Assistant is linked to the same Google account as your Google Home devices.
2. Set SMS Permissions (Android Only):
   • Go to your phone’s Settings > Apps > Google Assistant.
   • Enable permissions for SMS and contacts.
3. Default SMS App:
   • Confirm Google Messages or another SMS app is set as your default messaging app.

For Messaging Apps:

You can link popular apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Viber.

1. Link Messaging Apps:
   • Open Google Assistant and go to Settings > Services > Communication.
   • Link supported apps like WhatsApp.
2. Grant Permissions:
   • Allow Google Assistant to access your messages and contacts for hands-free messaging.

Also Read: How to Schedule Alarms Using Google Home Assistant

Step 2: Use Voice Commands to Send Messages

Once set up, you can send messages using voice commands with Google Assistant on your phone or smart display.

Common Voice Commands:

• Send a Text Message:
  • “Hey Google, send a text to [contact name].”
  • Google Assistant will ask for the message content:
    • You: “Tell John I’ll be there at 7 PM.”
    • Google Assistant: “Message sent.”
• Send Messages via Apps:
  • “Hey Google, send a WhatsApp message to [contact name].”
  • “Hey Google, send a message on Telegram to [contact name].”
• Broadcast Messages on Google Home Devices (Optional):
  • “Hey Google, broadcast ‘Dinner is ready.’”

Step 3: Automate Quick Texts with Routines

You can set up Google Assistant routines to automate sending specific messages.

1. Open the Google Home App:
   • Navigate to the Routines section.
2. Create a New Routine:
   • Tap + Add a Routine.
3. Add an Action:
   • Choose an action like sending a predefined text message through your messaging app.
4. Save and Activate:
   • Trigger the routine with a voice command or specific event.

Limitations

1. Smart Speakers Can’t Send SMS:
   • Google Nest or Home devices can’t send traditional text messages. Messaging functionality is limited to Google Assistant on smartphones.
2. iPhone Restrictions:
   • On iPhones, Google Assistant relies on third-party apps like WhatsApp and doesn’t have full SMS capabilities.
3. No Multi-App Support:
   • You can only send messages via the default app or linked messaging service.

Also Read: Does Google Home Assistant Work with Zoom Calls

Quick FAQs

1. Can I Send Group Messages?

Yes, but this feature is supported only on certain apps like WhatsApp. For SMS, group messaging isn’t available via Google Assistant.

2. Can Google Home Devices Read Incoming Messages?

No, smart speakers like Google Home or Nest devices cannot access or read your incoming messages.

3. Can I Schedule Messages?

Google Assistant cannot schedule messages natively, but third-party apps like IFTTT or Tasker can enable this feature.

4. Does Google Assistant Work with iMessage?

No, iMessage is not supported. Google Assistant works with SMS on Android and certain third-party apps on iPhone.

5. What Messaging Apps Are Supported?

Apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Viber are commonly supported, but availability may vary by region.

Also Read: Can Google Home Assistant Read Email Summaries

Conclusion

Google Home Assistant can send quick text messages when used on a smartphone with proper permissions and app integration. While smart speakers can’t directly send messages, you can leverage Google Assistant on your phone or linked messaging apps like WhatsApp for seamless hands-free texting.