Google wants to increase the privacy of users with the guest mode for its smart display and smart speakers. This guest mode is available in the Dutch language and in this article, you will find out how this function works.
If guest mode is enabled on these devices, Google Assistant interactions will not be saved to your Google Account. In addition, audio recordings of voice commands are automatically deleted. Google states that this guest mode is in addition to other privacy-preserving measures such as deleting a conversation with the Google Assistant via voice command.
Google adds: In guest mode, you can enjoy popular features such as ask questions, control smart home devices, set timers and play music. Your device will not display any personal results, such as your calendar events or contacts until you turn off the mode.
Enable guest mode
To enable or disable guest mode on smart speakers or displays such as the Nest Audio and Nest Hub, say the following:
- Hey Google, turn on guest mode
- Hey Google, turn off guest mode
Once the guest mode is enabled, the device will play a tune and you will see a guest icon on the screen. If you are not sure whether the guest mode is on, you can ask the device: “Is guest mode on?” Guest mode will remain enabled until you choose to disable it. Disabling this mode will return you to your full, personalized Google Assistant experience.
The guest mode can be useful if someone is visiting and you don’t want them to access past searches or see what’s on your calendar. The guest mode is not a real incognito mode, because access to, for example, music streaming and custom routines are still possible. In addition, the guest mode can be switched off again with a voice command.
