Google Home Assistant doesn’t have native support for Slack, but you can integrate the two using third-party tools like IFTTT or Zapier.

This setup allows you to automate Slack actions, send messages, or receive notifications through voice commands on Google Home.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to integrate Slack with Google Home Assistant.

Step 1: Set Up Slack

1. Create a Slack Account:
   • If you don’t already have one, sign up for a free account at Slack.
   • Join or create a workspace for your team or personal use.
2. Install the Slack App:
   • Download the Slack app on your smartphone or desktop for easy access.

Step 2: Use IFTTT to Connect Slack and Google Home

IFTTT (If This Then That) is a free platform that helps connect Google Assistant with Slack.

1. Create an IFTTT Account:
   • Sign up at IFTTT or log in if you already have an account.
2. Link Google Assistant to IFTTT:
   • In the IFTTT dashboard, search for Google Assistant.
   • Click Connect and log in with your Google account.
3. Link Slack to IFTTT:
   • Search for Slack in IFTTT.
   • Click Connect and log in with your Slack account.
4. Create Applets for Automation:
   • Examples of applets you can create:
     • Send a Slack Message:
       • Trigger: “Hey Google, send a message to my Slack channel.”
       • Action: Post a predefined message in Slack.
     • Get Notifications on Google Home:
       • Trigger: A specific Slack channel gets a message.
       • Action: Google Assistant announces the message.

Also Read: Can Google Home Assistant Manage Shared Task Lists

Step 3: Use Zapier for Advanced Automation

Zapier is another platform similar to IFTTT, offering more complex workflows.

1. Create a Zapier Account:
   • Sign up at Zapier.
2. Connect Google Assistant to Zapier:
   • Search for Google Assistant in Zapier and connect your Google account.
3. Connect Slack to Zapier:
   • Add Slack as an app and authorize Zapier to access your Slack workspace.
4. Set Up Zaps:
   • Example workflows (Zaps):
     • When you say “Update Slack,” Zapier posts a message to a specific Slack channel.
     • When a Slack message matches a keyword, Google Assistant sends you a notification.

Step 4: Create Voice Commands for Slack

Once Slack is connected to Google Home via IFTTT or Zapier, you can use voice commands to perform actions.

Examples of Voice Commands:

• Send Messages:
  • “Hey Google, send a message to the general Slack channel.”
  • The applet posts your predefined message.
• Check Slack Notifications:
  • “Hey Google, read my Slack updates.”
• Trigger Workflows:
  • “Hey Google, run my Slack update routine.”

Step 5: Troubleshooting

Common Issues and Fixes:

1. Slack Not Responding:
   • Ensure IFTTT or Zapier has proper permissions to access your Slack workspace.
2. Voice Commands Not Triggering:
   • Double-check the applet or Zap setup and ensure the trigger phrases match your voice command.
3. Notifications Delayed:
   • Make sure both Slack and the automation platform (IFTTT or Zapier) have a stable internet connection.

Also Read: Can Google Home Assistant Read Email Summaries

Quick FAQs

1. Can Google Home Directly Integrate with Slack?

No, direct integration isn’t supported, but third-party tools like IFTTT or Zapier make it possible.

2. Is IFTTT Free for Slack Integration?

Yes, IFTTT offers free applets, but advanced features may require a paid plan.

3. Can Google Assistant Read Slack Messages?

Google Assistant can’t natively read Slack messages but can announce them through IFTTT/Zapier automation.

4. Can I Send Messages to Private Slack Channels?

Yes, but you need to authorize the integration to access private channels.

5. Is Zapier Better Than IFTTT for Slack Integration?

Zapier offers more advanced workflows but may require a paid subscription for complex tasks.

Also Read: How to Use Google Home Assistant for Calendar Planning

Conclusion

Although Google Home Assistant doesn’t natively support Slack, platforms like IFTTT and Zapier enable seamless integration. With these tools, you can send messages, receive notifications, and automate Slack tasks using simple voice commands. This setup boosts productivity and ensures you stay connected to your Slack workspace effortlessly.