We’re still finding notable features in the Android Lollipop Developer Preview. This one was pointed out by Ausdroid reader Benjamin, who alerted us to the fact that you can finally use “OK Google” hotword detection while using English (Australia) as your language.
You can also configure the Google Search app to use “OK Google” from any screen (as well as from the lock screen – but no, it won’t work when the screen is off as we saw on the Moto X).
The option isn’t available on Kitkat, so it seems like it’s been enabled in the latest developer build, and is probably contingent on the new audio APIs that allow this functionality in Lollipop.
To enable it, simply head into your Google Settings > Voice > ‘Ok Google’ Detection and enable the options. If you haven’t been through the Ok Google training, you’ll be asked to say ‘Ok Google’ three times and then you’re good to go. You’ll also be able to use all the great voice commands like calling family members.
With Australian English now available in the Language picker when you set up Google’s Nexus devices, it’s nice to see them follow-up with further functionality.
