Google Now’s ‘Ok Google’ adds WhatsApp, Viber, and WeChat support

Google’s voice-command system expands it reach in your phone further by adding support for some third-party messaging apps. Now, you can talk to the Google Now Launcher to send messages for you on WhatsApp, Viber, and WeChat. You just have to say: “Ok Google, send X message to Y: add message.” X represents the service and Y is the person in your contacts, that contact has to have the same name on your device and the corresponding app though for it to work. So, you can say “Ok Google, send Viber message to dad: Pick up milk today.” The app also adds support for Telegram and NextPlus for voice commands.

Source: SlashGear     

Google Now Launcher brings Material Design to Jelly Bean, KitKat

If you want to try out Android Lollipop’s Material Design but still have a Jelly Bean or KitKat machine, you can get a taste of Google’s new mobile UI via Google Now Launcher. It can bring you the almost exact home screen experience without the stock icons though. But other than that, when Google rolls out improvements to the launcher, you get access to those, too. You just have to be running Android 4.1 Jelly Bean or above.

The Now Launcher has new animations, white Google Search bar, app drawer button, and new folder design. You can now also swipe right to customize the digital assistant, add reminders, and switch between your Google accounts.

Source: Cult of Android | Download: Google Play Store (Free)

Google Now Launcher available for other Android devices

Google is making its Nexus 5 launcher available for other Android-powered devices, with a few conditions. The Google Now Launcher was initially available with the Nexus 5 and then with other Nexus and Google Play Edition devices. Now, Android users with devices running on version 4.1 or higher will gain access to the launcher. You just have to make sure you are running the latest version of the Google Search app.

The launcher will change your homescreen to look identical to that of the Nexus 5 when it first launched. You will gain access to the “Ok, Google” voice command, new wallpapers, as well as the ability to see all your cards just by swiping to the right from your home screen.

Source: Ubergizmo

ZTE plans to minimize customization of Android OS

A lot of manufacturers put on heavy skins over the Android operating system but thankfully some of them are seeing that it is better to present Android in its native form (or as close to it as possible). ZTE has just announced that they plan to use the Google Now launcher as its default home screen for the new smartphones they will be introducing. So, if you’re not a fan of heavy customization of the Android OS but a ZTE fan, then you’ll have something to look forward to soon.

Source: Engadget