Google Assistant has multiple voices built in, and you can switch between them in seconds
Google Assistant comes with several voice options pre-installed on your device. You can change which voice speaks to you by opening the Google Assistant settings, finding the voice section, and selecting a different option. The process takes less than a minute and works the same way on phones, tablets, and smart speakers — though the exact menu names differ slightly depending on what device you're using.
The voices available depend on your device type and language setting. Most English-language versions offer at least four distinct voices, each with different pitch, speed, and tone. Some voices are male, some female, and some are gender-neutral. You can test each one before committing to a change.
Key Takeaways
- Open Google Assistant settings, tap "Assistant voice," and select a new voice from the list to change how Google Assistant sounds.
- You can preview each voice option before selecting it, so you can hear what it sounds like before making your choice permanent.
- The voice you choose applies to all Google Assistant responses on that device, including answers, directions, and notifications.
- Different device types (phones, smart speakers, tablets) have slightly different menu layouts, but the voice-changing option is always in the main settings area.
Changing the voice on an Android phone or tablet
Open the Google Assistant app by saying "Hey Google" or tapping the Google Assistant icon. Then tap your profile picture in the top right corner and select "Assistant settings." Scroll down and tap "Assistant voice" under the General section.
You will see a list of available voices. Tap the speaker icon next to each one to hear a short sample. Once you find the voice you want, tap it to select it. The change takes effect when ready — the next time Google Assistant speaks, it will use your new voice.
Changing the voice on a Google Home or Nest speaker
Open the Google Home app on your phone and tap the device you want to change. Tap the settings icon (gear symbol) in the top right. Scroll down and tap "Assistant voice."
Select a new voice from the list. You can tap the play button next to each option to hear it before you decide. Once you select a voice, it updates on that speaker when ready. If you have multiple Google Home or Nest devices, you can set a different voice on each one.
Changing the voice on a computer or web browser
Go to myaccount.google.com and sign in. Click "Manage your Google Account" and select the "Assistant" tab. Click "Assistant voice" and choose a new voice from the options shown.
This changes the voice Google Assistant uses when you interact with it through a web browser or on a computer. The change applies to all web-based interactions with Google Assistant across different devices.
What happens when you change the voice
The voice you select becomes the default voice for all Google Assistant responses on that device. This includes answers to questions, directions while navigating, reading notifications aloud, and any other time Google Assistant speaks to you. If you change your mind, you can switch back to a previous voice at any time using the same steps.
Some voices may sound slightly different depending on what Google Assistant is saying. For example, a voice might sound different when reading a long passage versus answering a quick question. This is normal and happens because Google processes speech differently for different types of responses.
Why you might want to change the voice
Some people find certain voices easier to understand, especially if English is not their first language. Others prefer a particular tone or gender presentation. If you use Google Assistant frequently, hearing a different voice can make the experience feel fresher and less repetitive. Parents sometimes change the voice to make Google Assistant sound more distinct from other voices in the household.
You might also change the voice if you find it distracting or if it does not match your personal preference. Since you can test each voice before selecting it, there is no penalty for experimenting.
Voices available in different regions and languages
The number and type of voices available depends on your language setting and region. English-language versions typically offer between four and six voices. If you use Google Assistant in a different language, the available voices change to match that language. Some languages have fewer voice options than English.
If you switch your device language, Google Assistant may revert to a default voice for that language. You can change it again using the same process. Bilingual users can set different voices for different languages if their device supports multiple language inputs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a custom voice or upload my own voice to Google Assistant?
No, Google Assistant does not currently allow you to upload a custom voice or record your own voice to use as the assistant. You can only choose from the pre-recorded voices that Google provides. This may change in the future as the technology develops.
Will changing the voice affect voice commands or how Google Assistant understands me?
No, changing the voice only changes how Google Assistant sounds when it speaks to you. It does not affect how well it understands your voice commands or how it processes what you say. Your voice input remains the same regardless of which assistant voice you choose.
If I have multiple Google devices, do I have to change the voice on each one separately?
Yes, each device has its own voice setting. You can set different voices on different devices, or you can make them all the same. Change each device individually through its own settings or through the Google Home app by selecting that specific device.
What if I do not like any of the available voices?
You are limited to the voices Google provides for your language and region. If none of them feel right, you can try adjusting the speech rate in Google Assistant settings, which sometimes makes a voice sound more natural to your ear. Otherwise, you may need to wait for Google to add new voice options.
Does changing the voice cost anything?
No, changing the voice is completely free. All the voices are included with Google Assistant at no extra cost. There are no subscriptions or in-app purchases required to access different voices.