Hi all,
It is not possible to use the voice command “okay/hey Google” when the screen is locked and turned off. If the screen is on, even if the phone is locked, then it works.
Since it’s possible on other phones to use the voice command even when the screen is off, I searched online and contacted the support.
The answer is that it is a system limitation, and there is no workaround. I thought I’d share it here, since I saw other users search for answers and getting no reply.
However, if someone can explain why this limitation exists, I’d be happy to know. Is it a decision by Fairphone for ethical or energy saving reasons? Is it a hardware limitation?
Cheers, have a good day!
Here is an excerpt of the answer I received from Fairphone’s support:
Since this is a system-level limitation on the device, there is currently no setting or workaround that we can officially recommend to enable the “screen off” voice activation feature.
However, you can still access the assistant in the following ways:
When the screen is on and locked: Use the “Hey Google” or “Okay Google” voice command.
Physical Shortcut: Long-press the power button (if enabled in Settings > System > Gestures > Press and hold power button).
Gemini/Google Search Bar: Tap the microphone or Gemini icon on the home screen search bar.