This free Android assistant fixes my biggest Gemini frustration - and keeps my data private
A free and open-source voice assistant called Dicio is a viable alternative to Google Assistant or Gemini, offering hands-free calling and other features without compromising user data.
Intelligence analysis by Llama
Dicio is a solid replacement for Google Assistant, handling basic tasks well, but it does not work with Android Auto. The app's main drawback is its inability to integrate with Android Auto.
Dicio is a free app that helps you talk to your Android phone. You can ask it to do things like call people, play music, and even tell you the weather. It's like having a personal assistant, but it's free and doesn't listen to your conversations.
Analysis
A Reliable Alternative to Google Assistant
With Google set to retire Assistant, and Gemini not exactly the replacement many of us want, Dicio is a solid option. Dicio handles basic tasks very well, including hands-free calling. The free app's main drawback is that it does not work with Android Auto.
Installing Dicio
Installing Dicio is a straightforward process. The app is available in the Google Play Store, so all you have to do is search for it, tap the entry, then tap Install. Once installed, open the app and walk through the setup wizard.
Using Dicio
Dicio is as easy to use as Assistant. You simply say, 'Hey, Dicio...' followed by what you want it to do. Note: The correct pronunciation of the app (for the wake word) is 'diss-eee-oh.' I've tested Dicio with the usual tasks that Assistant would have handled for me, and here are my results:
- Setting timers: Works as expected.
- Opening apps: All the default Android apps work; some other apps do not.
- Controlling media: Controlling Spotify works flawlessly.
- Hands-free phone calls: Works as expected.
- Note-taking: Does not work.
- Hands-free navigation: Works well (using Google Maps).
- Compose or send emails and messages: Neither works.
- Weather: Works well.
- Calculations: Does not work (bug reported).
- Read notifications: Works as expected.
- Integration with Android Auto: Does not work.
Available Options
If you click the three horizontal line menu button near the top left of the Dicio window, and tap Settings, you'll see a few options you can adjust, including language, theme, skills, input method, wake word recognition method, import custom wake word, search output method, play sound when starting to listen, maximum silence before start of speech, and directly send result of speech to text pop-up.
Caveats
Dicio's biggest drawback is that it currently does not work with Android Auto. This is because Google does not recognize Dicio as a valid voice assistant for Android Auto. For Dicio to work with Android Auto, Google will have to change its stance.
Key points
- Dicio is a free and open-source voice assistant that offers hands-free calling and other features without compromising user data.
- The app's main drawback is its inability to integrate with Android Auto.
- Dicio handles basic tasks well, including setting timers, controlling media, and reading notifications.
- The app's development is active, and it has a lot of potential for growth and improvement.
If Dicio continues to develop and improve, it could become a top choice for Android users looking for a reliable and private voice assistant. With its current features and potential for growth, Dicio is a solid alternative to Google Assistant.
If Google does not recognize Dicio as a valid voice assistant for Android Auto, it could limit the app's functionality and make it less appealing to users. Additionally, if Dicio's development slows down or stops, it could become outdated and less reliable.
