Google starts throwing cash at Google Assistant startups

Today, Google is launching a new investment program for early-stage startups working to broaden Google Assistant hardware or features. The new program provides financial resources, early access to Google features and tools, access to the Google Cloud Platform, and promotional support in efforts to bolster young companies. Google says its investment program will also support startups focussing on Google Assistant's use in travel, hospitality, or games industries. The startups will receive advice from Google engineers, product managers, and design experts who will guide the young companies through technical and product development. Google notes it's looking at creating new devices and ideas that use Google Assistant in fresh ways.