Google Home Assistant allows you to adjust its sensitivity settings to make it more or less responsive to the wake words “Hey Google” or “Ok Google.”

This feature is particularly useful if your device struggles to hear you in noisy environments or responds unintentionally when it hears similar sounds.

Here’s how you can adjust Google Assistant’s sensitivity on your Google Home devices.

Step 1: Open the Google Home App

1. Make sure your smartphone or tablet is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Google Home device.
2. Launch the Google Home app (available on Android and iOS).

Step 2: Select Your Device

1. In the Home tab, locate the Google Home or Nest device you want to adjust.
2. Tap on the device to open its settings.

Step 3: Access Sensitivity Settings

1. In the device settings, scroll down and tap Hey Google Sensitivity.
   • If this option doesn’t appear, ensure your app and device firmware are up to date.
2. You will see a sensitivity slider with three options:
   • Less Sensitive: Reduces the likelihood of accidental activations.
   • Default: Maintains the standard response level.
   • More Sensitive: Increases responsiveness, ideal for noisy environments.

Also Read: How to Change Google Home Assistant’s Default Voice

Step 4: Adjust the Sensitivity

1. Drag the slider to your desired sensitivity level for the wake words:
   • More Sensitive: If the device has trouble hearing you from a distance or in noisy rooms.
   • Less Sensitive: If the device activates unintentionally when it hears similar words.
2. Save your changes, and the new sensitivity level will be applied immediately.

Step 5: Test the New Settings

Once adjusted, test the sensitivity settings by saying “Hey Google” or “Ok Google” from different distances and noise levels.

Tips for Testing:

• Speak at your normal volume and tone.
• Test from various spots in the room.
• Introduce background noise to simulate real-world conditions.

Additional Tips

1. Position Your Device Correctly:
   • Place the Google Home device on a flat surface, away from obstructions or walls, to ensure better voice recognition.
2. Avoid Confusing Phrases:
   • If accidental activations persist, avoid using phrases that sound similar to “Hey Google.”
3. Update Firmware Regularly:
   • Ensure your Google Home device is running the latest firmware for optimal performance.
4. Set Sensitivity for Multiple Devices:
   • If you have multiple Google Home devices, you can adjust the sensitivity for each one individually in the Google Home app.

Also Read: How to Set a Custom Language for Google Home Assistant

Quick FAQs

1. Can I Adjust Sensitivity for All Devices at Once?
No, sensitivity must be adjusted individually for each Google Home or Nest device.

2. Why Does My Device Not Have the Sensitivity Option?
Ensure your Google Home app and device firmware are updated. The feature may not be available on older devices.

3. Does Higher Sensitivity Drain More Power?
No, adjusting sensitivity does not impact power consumption.

4. Can Sensitivity Be Adjusted for Specific Commands?
No, sensitivity settings apply only to wake words like “Hey Google” or “Ok Google.”

5. How Do I Stop My Device from Activating Accidentally?
Lower the sensitivity or reposition the device away from noisy areas or competing devices.

Also Read: Can Google Home Assistant Display Custom Widgets

Conclusion

Adjusting the sensitivity of Google Home Assistant ensures that your device responds appropriately to wake words, whether you’re in a quiet or noisy environment. By fine-tuning the settings through the Google Home app, you can eliminate false activations or improve responsiveness, creating a more seamless and enjoyable smart home experience.