‘OK Google’ was a feature of the previous version of Google’s chrome internet browser, but will no longer be available in the desktop format. The feature allowed users to use the phrase ‘OK Google’ and then follow up with a request such as something to search or a website to go to, similar to ‘Siri’ for Iphones.
The feature will no longer be available for use on Windows and Mac desktops but will still be available to use with android smartphones. Google said the reason for the elimination of the feature was the lack of use in the desktop format according to a Forbes report.
The concept of communication with devices is still new and therefor not widely used. Seemingly this concept is more fit for a smartphone when there are moments like being in a car or away from your phone when the communication makes more sense than with your internet browser, when the control is already at your fingertips.
Voice search will still be available on Google.com, it will just not be triggered by the phrase ‘OK Google’ any longer. Because of the lack of use the feature being still there but not regularly updated actually posed a security risk for users, because attackers could use the feature even if the primary user does not. The added expense of updating the feature even though it was not popular was another reason for it being completely removed rather than just being still available while not being updated.