The world of Gadgets offers a wide range of options and tools that you can use in your home to make your life easier. These gadgets range from smart vacuum cleaners, pool cleaners, color-changing lamps, and of course smart speakers.
The latter is especially useful because it allows you to control all the appliances in your home with your voice. However, not everyone has the resources to buy one of these speakers because they are a bit expensive.
In these cases, what could you do? You could create your own smart speaker and we will help you achieve it. In this article we will show you a technique you can use to turn your phone into a Google Home . This will allow you to use any phone that you are not using so that it becomes a great gadget for your home.
What is Google Home?
This is an App that allows you to configure and control Google Nest and Google Home devices . It is a kind of remote control, with thousands of smart home devices from well-known brands.
In short, this App allows you to control, organize and manage thousands of lights, cameras, speakers, TVs and other compatible devices.
It also allows you to see your reminders and notifications, manage Google settings and your device Settings with a single application.
And the great thing about all this is that your Android device can become Google Home and thus, among other things, control your devices. Let’s see how to achieve it, we will explain what steps you must take and you will see that it is very easy to follow them.
How to turn my mobile into a smart speaker or Google Home?
To be able to turn your computer into a Google Home, it is necessary to have two basic things, a speaker and a mobile. There is no problem with the type of speaker, it simply must be functional.
It doesn’t matter if your speaker connects via Bluetooth or wired. Although it is advisable to use a cable one since those that connect via Bluetooth , usually disconnect if there is no activity for a while.
That is the case of the speaker. What about our mobile device ? Does it work with whatever you have available? The answer is no.
Our equipment must be compatible with Google Assistant for it to work. It is also necessary to have a free memory of at least 1.5 GB and a screen resolution of at least 720 pixels. Now that we have the basics for our smart speaker, let’s see how we can do it.
Step 1
Go to Settings, then select Google, while there, press “Search, Assistant and Voice.” Then you must select Voice Match and access the system to configure OK Google and save your voice. If you are interested in knowing how to change the voice of the Google assistant on Android, enter this article.
Step 2
In this way, the assistant will be able to recognize your voice and obey the orders that you indicate. Now select the Hands-free mode and you must activate the wizard to accept Bluetooth and cable devices.
How to connect the mobile and the speaker?
What you must do as the last step to make your mobile a smart speaker is to configure it so that it is attentive at all times. Activate the option to unlock the phone by saying “OK, Google” in the Settings section of the Google option.
Once you are there you must select Settings> Google> Search, assistant and voice> and activate the option to access with Voice Match.
After doing all this, it only remains to connect your device to the speaker in your house, either via Bluetooth or with cables. Now you need to pair it with your smart home devices so that you can interact with them fully.
Then you can not only ask about the weather but adjust the devices you want the way you want. With this we finish the guide, we hope it has been useful and you have a home smart speaker using your old mobile.
If you have a Google Home device and you need to reset or set it to factory settings, this article is the one for you.
Requirements for Turning Your Old Phone into a Smart Speaker
Before we dive into the steps, let’s make sure you have everything you need to successfully complete this project. Here are the essential requirements:
- An Old Phone: Any Android or iOS device that is no longer in use will work. Make sure it has a working speaker and is compatible with the necessary apps.
- A Stable Internet Connection: To stream music seamlessly, you will need a reliable internet connection.
- A Dedicated Music Streaming Service: Choose a music streaming platform such as Spotify, Apple Music, or Google Play Music to enjoy a wide variety of music when your smart speaker is up and running.
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have the necessary requirements, let’s proceed with the step-by-step process of turning your old phone into a smart speaker:
Step 1: Factory Reset
To start fresh, it’s important to factory reset your old phone. This will erase all existing data, ensuring a clean slate for setting up as a smart speaker. Before performing a factory reset, make sure to back up any important data you may have on the device.
Step 2: Enable Developer Options
To access the advanced settings required for this process, you need to enable Developer Options on your old phone. This can be done by going to the Settings menu, locating the “About Phone” section, and tapping on the build number 7 times. This will unlock the Developer Options in your settings.
Step 3: Install a Custom ROM or Launcher
To optimize your old phone for its new role as a smart speaker, consider installing a custom ROM or launcher. A custom ROM will provide a cleaner and more streamlined interface, improving the overall performance of your device. Research and choose a ROM that is compatible with your specific phone model.
Step 4: Install a Music Streaming App
Head over to the app store on your old phone and install a music streaming app of your choice. This will serve as your primary source of music when using your smart speaker. Some popular options include Spotify, Apple Music, and Google Play Music.
Step 5: Mount or Dock Your Phone
To make your smart speaker more practical, consider mounting or docking your old phone. This will ensure it stays securely in place and can be easily controlled. Various options are available in the market, including wall mounts, desk stands, and even portable docking stations.
Step 6: Connect to a Speaker or Sound System
To enhance the audio quality of your old phone-turned-smart speaker, connect it to an external speaker or sound system. This can be done through Bluetooth or using an auxiliary cable. Ensure the connected speaker delivers the sound quality you desire, bringing your favorite music to life.
Step 7: Set Up Voice Commands
One of the key features of a smart speaker is the ability to control it using voice commands. Install a voice control app, such as Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, to enable hands-free operation. This will allow you to play, pause, skip, or adjust the volume with just your voice.
Step 8: Enjoy Your Smart Speaker
Congratulations! You have successfully turned your old phone into a smart speaker. Explore the features of your chosen music streaming app, create playlists, and rediscover your favorite tunes. Your new smart speaker will provide endless hours of entertainment and enhance your audio experience.
Conclusion
Don’t let your old phone go to waste – transform it into a smart speaker and breathe new life into your music collection. With a few simple steps, you can repurpose your old device and enjoy the benefits of a smart speaker without breaking the bank. Follow the step-by-step guide outlined in this article and get ready to experience the power of music like never before. Start your DIY project today and enjoy your personalized smart speaker at a fraction of the cost!
