A new feature is being tested internally at Google that could eliminate the need to say “Hey Google” before expressing commands for Nest Hub smart screens. Android Central Reports. Alternatively, the feature codenamed “Blue Steel” can allow the device to simply sense your presence, and proactively hear commands without having to hear the alert word first.

The job was featured in a video he posted to YouTube by Jan Boromeusz, who Android Central You notice previously leaked features like The new dark mode for the Nest Hub Before its official announcement. In the video, Boromeusz can be seen requesting a variety of information, all without uttering the words “Hey Google”. Its Nest Hub Max smart screen is said to run leaked internal firmware intended for testing within Google, and it’s unclear if the company has any plans to release the functionality publicly.

Speculation is that Nest Hub Max is using the Existing ultrasound sensor To sense the person’s presence and start listening. Currently, the smart screen uses this to simply adjust the information it displays. However, in the future, this same technology could allow it to listen to voice commands when it knows you are nearby. Ars Technica To speculate It can also be used Face Match feature in the camera To get a better idea of ​​who is talking. Boromeusz offers an option to turn Blue Steel on and off in the Smart Display settings menu.

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If released to the public, Blue Steel could raise privacy concerns. One of the key elements about current smart speakers and screens is that they only pay attention to what you say after hearing the word wake up. Relying on proximity detection alone increases the risk of devices hearing something they are not supposed to hear, at the cost of your privacy.

Nevertheless, Blue Steel can be beneficial my choice An advantage for some. Having to say “Hey Google” or “Ok Google” over and over before each voice command can be annoying, and this has the potential to make accessing the information you need much faster.