Google Assistant to now read 'good news' of the day

Google is giving users a way to take a break from the constant stream of negative headlines. Its Google Assistant has introduced an experimental feature called "Tell me something good", which delivers a daily selection of positive stories about people working to solve real-world problems.

The feature, initially available to Google Assistant users in the US, can be activated simply by saying, "Hey Google, tell me something good."

Instead of focusing on breaking news or negative developments, the feature highlights stories of progress and practical solutions from around the world. Google said the idea is to provide users with a more balanced experience while consuming news.

"Real people are making progress solving real issues and hearing about those stories is a crucial part of a balanced media diet," said Ryan Burke, Creative Producer at Google's Creative Lab.

The stories are curated and summarised by the Solutions Journalism Network, a non-partisan, non-profit organisation that focuses on reporting about responses to social problems and the results of those efforts.

Google said solutions-focused journalism can help audiences feel more informed and energised rather than overwhelmed by a continuous stream of negative news.

"Solutions journalism empowers and energises audiences, helping to combat negative news fatigue," the company said, adding that it was exploring ways to bring more such reporting to users through Google News.

The feature can be used on Google Assistant-enabled devices, including smartphones, smart displays and Google Home smart speakers.

The announcement also reflects Google's broader push to make its Assistant part of the connected home. The company said Google Assistant could connect with more than 5,000 types of smart-home devices, ranging from lights, cameras and doorbells to thermostats, security systems, vacuum cleaners, refrigerators and ovens.

As the number of connected devices continues to grow, Google is positioning Assistant not just as a tool for answering questions, but as a central interface for managing everyday tasks and accessing information.