Google Assistant is branching out in a major way.
Google's Alexa and Siri rival is headed to smart displays, plus a number of additional smart speakers, Android TV devices, headphones, and Android Auto.
The virtual assistant, which is already available on the Google Home, Mini, and Max, is coming to new speakers from Altec Lansing, Anker Innovations, Bang & Olufsen, Braven, iHome, JBL, Jensen, LG, Klipsch, Knit Audio, Memorex, RIVA Audio, and SoLIS, Scott Huffman, VP of engineering for Google Assistant, wrote in a blog post.
Later this year, meanwhile, Google Assistant will arrive on smart displays from JBL, Lenovo, LG, and Sony.
"These new devices have the Google Assistant built in, and with the added benefit of a touch screen, they can help you get even more done," Huffman wrote. "You can watch videos from YouTube, video call with Google Duo, find photos from Google Photos and more. You can also get recommendations for your favorite content, right on the home screen."
Lenovo's Smart Display with Google Assistant (pictured) features an 8- or 10-inch screen that doubles as a digital picture frame when not in use, as well as a 10-watt full-range speaker. It's expected to go on sale early this summer starting at $199.99 for the 8-inch model and $249.99 for the 10-inch version, and comes in gray and bamboo color options.
Meanwhile, Assistant is also headed to more Android TV devices such as AirTV Player, and others from Bouygues Telecom, LG U+, TCL, Skyworth, and Xiaomi. Plus, several other companies—including Changhong, Element, Funai, Haier, Hisense, and Westinghouse—are announcing new Assistant-equipped Android TVs this week. Google is also working with LG to integrate the voice-based assistant into a new line of LG TVs.
Google also tipped Assistant on more headphones, including ones from Jaybird, JBL, LG, and Sony.
"These headphones are optimized for the Google Assistant; once you pair them to your phone, you can talk to the Assistant instantly with just the touch of an earbud, whether you want to skip a track to hear the next song, get notifications, or hear and respond to your messages," Huffman wrote.
Finally, this week, Google Assistant is coming to Android Auto. Google's phone-based infotainment system is available in "tens of millions of cars" from more than 40 brands. The Assistant integration will let drivers play music from apps like Spotify and Google Play Music, get directions via Google Maps or Waze, and send or receive messages from WhatsApp and other services—all with their voice.
"And soon, you'll be able to reserve a parking space with SpotHero or order your favorite handcrafted drink or food from Starbucks—all from the road," Huffman wrote.