It is either the best feature Google Now offers, or the scariest. Apparently, Google can scan your email account looking for bills –so when you tap the microphone in the app and ask “Show me my bills” or “Which of my bills are due this week”, a detailed list of what is owed and a summary of past bills will be presented. This is one more extension of the growing Google Now personal assistant technology, aimed at providing important information to users before they even know to ask for it.
“When you can’t remember whether you’ve paid your bills — or you simply can’t remember how much money you need to pay — you can now just ask Google,” says the company. Of course, if you also forget to ask the question to begin with…
Scanning your email for content cues isn’t a new thing for Google, their search app has already been on the lookout for details regarding flight information and hotel reservations. Those concerned about privacy and security are likely to be a little outraged (or at least a tad nervous and concerned). Even though Google Now does require that you grant permission for email review initially, who knows what will be cataloged going forward.
Jillian Koskie is an experienced software developer, content writer, project manager and usability design expert. With over 17 years in these roles, Jillian has enjoyed applying her skill-set to assist clients and users across a wide variety of sectors including: legal, health, and financial services. Combining these professional opportunities with a love of technology, Jillian is pleased to contribute articles, opinions, and advice to numerous news outlets, websites, and publications.
