8 handy things to do with your new Google Assistant

So your Marshmallow-or-better Android phone just got Google Assistant, and when you long-press the Home button for the first time after the update, your new digital helper asks, "Hi, how can I help?" Read on for eight easy ways to get started with Google's chatty servant, from telling it what to call you, to making a shopping list, to turning on Bluetooth and even playing Solitaire. "Open the Kindle app," "make an appointment for noon today," "remind me to buy milk," and "play some jazz"--all familiar Android voice commands from way back when, and most of them will work just fine with Google Assistant. If you're not sure where to start with Google Assistant, try a familiar Android voice command--anything from "create a calendar event" to "set a timer." Just tap and hold the Home button, wait for Google Assistant to pop up, and then say something like, "send a text message to my wife," "send a mail message," or "what's the fastest way home?"