GAssist Launcher

A lightweight Android utility for quick access to Google Assistant through a simple shortcut-based workflow.

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Overview

GAssist Launcher is designed for users who want a fast, software-defined way to launch Google Assistant without relying on hardware buttons.

Installation

1. Clone the repository.

2. Open the project in Android Studio.

3. Make sure the required Android SDK and JDK are installed.

4. Build the release APK:

   ./gradlew assembleRelease

5. Install the APK on an Android device with Google Play Services enabled.

Usage

Quick launch

1. Install the app on a device that already has Google app / Google Assistant support.
2. Add the app shortcut to your launcher or pin it to the home screen from a supported launcher.
3. On supported devices, map the app to a hardware shortcut such as the side key or power button from system settings.

Supported shortcut examples

• Samsung Galaxy: Settings → Advanced features → Side key → set Double press to launch an app.
• Pixel devices: Settings → Apps → Default apps → Digital assistant app.
• Other Android phones: look for options named Buttons, Gestures, Shortcuts, Convenience tools, or Special features.

Shortcut notes

• Android supports app shortcuts and pinned shortcuts in supported launchers.
• Some launchers may limit how many shortcuts are visible.
• Not every Android device supports remapping the side button to an app.

Technical Overview

GAssist Launcher works as a simple intent relay. It tries to open Google Assistant using native Android voice-command intents and fallback component mappings when needed.

Architecture

• Language: Kotlin
• Min SDK: 24 (Android 7.0)
• Target SDK: 35 (Android 15)
• Pattern: Single-Activity Intent Relay

Features

• Direct intent mapping for fast assistant access
• Component fallback system for broader compatibility
• Auto-termination after dispatching the intent
• Store redirection when required Google services are unavailable

Permissions and Security

• No internet permission
• No microphone permission
• No storage permission
• Uses package visibility declarations only for Google app detection on Android 11+

Development

Prerequisites

• Android Studio Ladybug or newer
• JDK 21
• Android SDK Platform 35

Build

./gradlew assembleRelease

Maintenance and Contribution

This project is intentionally minimal and low-overhead. Contributions that improve compatibility across regions, devices, or Android forks are welcome.

1. Fork the repository.
2. Create a feature branch.
3. Submit a pull request with a clear changelog.

License

This project is licensed under the GNU General Public License v3.0 (GPLv3).

What this means

• You are free to use, modify, and distribute this software.
• Any modified or redistributed version must also be released under GPLv3.
• You must provide access to the source code when distributing the software.

Key points

• Copyleft: Prevents the project from being turned into closed-source software.
• Patent protection: Provides safeguards against patent-related restrictions.
• User freedom: Ensures