Google Assistant stands out as one of the most powerful personal assistants for Android users, delivering seamless smart features. The Routines capability elevates this further, letting you automate daily tasks with voice commands.
Available routines in the Google Assistant mobile app include:
These predefined routines can't be added or removed, but you can tailor them extensively, including custom trigger phrases, to execute multiple actions in sequence.
In this guide, drawn from years of optimizing smart home setups, we'll walk through setting up Google Assistant Routines and customizing four essential ones to streamline your routine.
Getting started is straightforward. Tap the blue icon in the top-right corner of Google Assistant.
Then select Settings.
In Settings, tap Routines.
Here you'll find all routines. Google started with just one but has expanded the options—future updates may allow custom routines.
Open any routine to personalize it. Let's dive into four key ones trusted by productivity experts worldwide.
Your mornings set the tone for the day—silencing Do Not Disturb, checking weather, reviewing your calendar. Productive routines like these boost efficiency, as outlined in guides like 5 Inspiring Ways to Establish a Productive Morning Routine.
Just say "OK Google, good morning," and Assistant handles it all.
Available actions:
Audio defaults to your installed apps; customize via the gear icon next to each action.
Enhance your drive with weather, calendar checks, or podcasts—perfect for mornings or evenings.
Say "OK Google, time to head to work" (or your custom phrase), and actions chain automatically.
Commute to work actions:
Journey home actions:
Skip manual fiddling—let Assistant prep your playlist and navigation as you start your drive. For commute podcast ideas, explore curated lists like 12 Podcasts Guaranteed to Ease Your Journey Every Day.
Transitioning home or leaving often involves tweaks like thermostat adjustments or volume changes.
Say "I'm leaving" or "I'm home," and automate it.
I'm home actions:
Assistant can announce your arrival across Google Home devices. For setup tips, see our Google Home Review and How to Set Up and Use Your Google Home.
Wind down effortlessly: dim lights, set alarms, lower thermostat, play sleep sounds.
Google Assistant simplifies this routine.
Bedtime actions:
Say "OK Google, bedtime," and relax. Discover more with 6 Smart Gadgets to Help You Sleep Better.
Set app defaults in Settings for music, messaging, etc. Predefine texts for commutes.
Link smart devices via Settings > Home control. Tap the blue icon to add.
One-time setup unlocks voice control forever.
Voice automation feels unnatural at first, but Routines quickly become essential. iPhone users can benefit too—check What is Google Assistant and How to Use It on iOS.
