Panasonic’s 2018 4K TVs get Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa

Voice control is continuing to reach new levels of ubiquity - even in TVs.

Panasonic has just released a firmware update enabling its whole 2018 range of 4K smart TVs in Europe to work with the Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa via a compatible smart speaker.

The new functionality will allow Panasonic TV users who own an Alexa and/or Assistant-powered smart speaker to, for example, power their TV on and off, change channel and adjust volume simply by using their voice.

Owners should be prompted to update their TV’s firmware upon launching any internet-connected app. When the update is completed, the TV can be paired with a smart speaker via the Google Home or Amazon Alexa app.

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Becky is the managing editor of What Hi-Fi? and, since her recent move to Melbourne, also the editor of the brand's sister magazines Down Under – Australian Hi-Fi and Audio Esoterica. During her 11+ years in the hi-fi industry, she has reviewed all manner of audio gear, from budget amplifiers to high-end speakers, and particularly specialises in headphones and head-fi devices. In her spare time, Becky can often be found running, watching Liverpool FC and horror movies, and hunting for gluten-free cake.

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