Google may not have shiny stores where people can go to troubleshoot new Android devices, but the company wants to offer users some help in getting smartphones and tablets running right. That’s why the company launched a new Device Assist app on the Google Play Store today that provides tips and on-demand help for users in need.
The app will self-diagnose some problems that users are having and prompt them to tweak settings in order to fix issues. In addition, users can also tap a button in the app and get connected to a Google support rep. According to a report by Kif Leswing at GigaOM, the support is routed through Google’s existing channels attached to the Google Play Store, but the representative will be given a detailed profile of the user’s device, including its battery charge status and whether or not it has been rooted.
There’s one catch: it’s only available for owners of devices running Android 5.0 “Lollipop” and carry the Nexus, Google Play Edition or Android One branding. In other words, devices that Google already has a significant degree of control over.
The system is reminiscent of the Mayday feature that Amazon offers on certain Fire tablets and its Fire smartphone. Users tap on the “Mayday” button to start a video support call with a service representative who can help them – usually within a few seconds.
