Google is altering the way how Assistant works on the lock screen via Bluetooth

The Bluetooth settings of Google Assistant have received a major update. The new improvements focus on Paired Bluetooth devices with microphones, like headphones and Assistants. The updates are basically meant for improvement in functionality rather than any big modification. Google’s blog post reads that the three buttons under the Hands-free section have been removed from the voice settings.

The Bluetooth Audio Recording setting is going away on April 10

The Bluetooth Audio Recording setting allowed the usage of Bluetooth-enabled microphones. On the other hand, Google Assistant had access to numerous microphones. If Bluetooth earbuds and a smartwatch are plugged into your phone, it alerts the Assistant that a Bluetooth microphone is available. If your phone is connected to a Bluetooth-enabled vehicle, it also functions. The Bluetooth Audio Recording capability will no longer be available as of April 10. To communicate with Google Assistant, your phone will now immediately switch to the linked Bluetooth device’s microphone.

Assistant is no longer available in the Bluetooth device settings

In addition to this, two options i.e., “Allow Bluetooth Requests when Device Locked” and “Allow Wired Headset Requests when Device Locked” has been removed. Now the option “Assistant responses on lock screen” in the settings will dictate how Assistant reacts via paired Bluetooth earbuds or wired headphones without a headphone jack when the device is locked.

One of the interesting things to notice here is that Google Assistant will still respond even if the feature is disabled and the device is locked. It will happen in case the device is configured on Assistant-enabled headphones or wired headphones with a 3.5 mm jack. However, Assistant can be deactivated on these headphones from settings.