Google is rolling out a new feature today, allowing Android users participating in the Public Preview for Google Home to manage their smart home devices using natural language commands through the Google Home extension within the Gemini mobile app. This feature will become available over the coming weeks, offering a more streamlined approach to controlling compatible smart home accessories.
With the Gemini app, users can issue commands such as “Set the dining room for a romantic date night,” “Turn off the bedroom TV and lights,” “The sun is too bright in the living room” (to close window coverings), and “Help me clean up the kitchen” (to start the vacuum). Once fully deployed, responses will be delivered via the Gemini app instead of Google Assistant, providing a cohesive user experience.
In addition to the new extension, Google has enhanced smart home controls on Nest speakers and displays. These improvements include faster and simpler responses to voice commands and the introduction of new chimes that clearly indicate when devices are turned on or off or if an issue arises, enhancing overall usability.
The Google Home extension within the Gemini mobile app supports a wide range of smart home devices, including:
- Lights & Power: Lights, outlets, and switches
- Climate Control: Air conditioning units, thermostats, heaters, and fans
- Window Coverings: Curtains, blinds, and shutters
- Media Devices: TVs and speakers
- Other Smart Devices: Washers, coffee makers, and vacuums
To take advantage of these features, users need an Android phone or tablet, the Gemini app installed, and access to the Public Preview program. Currently, the Google Home extension is not available on iPhone devices, the Gemini web app, or Google Messages. Additionally, Gemini Apps Activity must be enabled for extensions to function properly.
Key Considerations:
- Language Support: The Google Home extension operates in English only.
- Voice Settings: Both spoken and typed prompts are supported. Users should ensure “Hey Google” and Voice Match are properly configured on their Android devices.
- Security and Safety: The extension is designed for convenience and should not be relied upon for safety- or security-critical functions. Certain security device actions, such as controlling gates, cameras, locks, doors, and garage doors, are not supported and require the use of the Google Home app.
Setting Up the Google Home Extension:
- Open the Gemini app on your Android device.
- Ensure you’re signed in with the same Google Account used for Google Home.
- Issue a command, such as “Turn on living room lights.”
- If prompted, follow the on-screen instructions to connect Gemini Apps to Google Home.
- Once connected, the extension will manage the same homes and devices as the Google Home app, including any new additions or shared devices.
Limitations:
- The extension cannot perform certain security device actions that require a pin.
- Streaming video feeds from cameras is not supported.
- Executing Routines is currently limited, though some functionality is available through Google Assistant integration within the Gemini app.
Google emphasizes that Gemini Apps respect user privacy by accessing personal content only with explicit permission and handling data according to developers’ privacy policies. This integration represents Google’s ongoing efforts to simplify smart home management, providing Android users with more flexible and intuitive control over their connected environments through the Gemini mobile app.
For more information on joining the Public Preview and setting up the Google Home extension, users can visit Google’s official support pages.
