Android Google Assistant & Search Shortcuts
Android Google Assistant & Search keyboard shortcuts with key combinations, actions, and usage notes.
How to use this reference
Use this category reference to find shortcuts for the platform shown. Start with the section for your operating system, read the action and description, and try the shortcut in an appropriate application. Keys joined with a plus sign are held together; alternatives let you choose the combination that works on your keyboard. A gesture requires a compatible touchpad or touch screen rather than a physical keyboard.
Before practicing, check which window has focus. Text fields, browser tabs, terminal sessions, and system dialogs can interpret the same keys differently. Save any open work before testing commands that close a window, delete content, or change system settings. Accessibility commands may need to be enabled in settings first, and a laptop may require the Fn key for function keys. If a combination is intercepted by an application or a custom keymap, consult its built-in help and your operating system settings. Follow the full platform guide for related commands and additional context.
Android
| Action | Shortcut | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Activate Google Assistant | Say 'Hey Google' / Swipe from corner / Hold Power | Summon Google Assistant by voice, corner swipe, or power button hold (device-dependent) |
| Voice Search | Say 'Hey Google' or 'OK Google' | Google Assistant listens for the hotword when the phone is unlocked or on a charger |
| Google Lens | Hold Power → Google Lens | Identify objects, plants, animals, text, barcodes, and landmarks using the camera |
| Quick Tap (Pixel back tap) | Double Tap Back of Phone | On Pixel: double tap the back to trigger a configurable action (screenshot, assistant, app) |
| Google Pay (tap to pay) | Unlock screen → hold near NFC reader | Unlock your phone and hold near an NFC payment terminal to pay |
| Google Discover Feed | Swipe Right on Home Screen | Swipe right from the first Home Screen page to see Google's personalised news feed |
| App Search | Swipe Up from Home → Type | Open the app drawer and start typing to search for any installed app instantly |
| Screen Search (Now on Tap) | Hold Home / Swipe from Bottom Corner | Activates Assistant's screen context awareness to search for information related to what's visible |