In today’s world, smart home devices have become very common. Whether you have a smart speaker or a fully automated home, accessing them has become easier and more affordable than ever. There are many ways to control these devices, but one of the easiest and best methods is using Google Home.
Over time, Google has added new features to this app and platform, enhancing the overall experience. Last year, Google introduced some updates to the app, and four of them are my favorite, which I frequently use.
Nest On My Wrist Who Came?
This is a specific update for the Google Nest watch, but its impact has been more significant than I expected. Now, I can view the video from my Nest Doorbell (Wired 2nd Generation) directly on my Google Pixel Watch 3. If someone is at the door, I can watch the video through the Google Home app, even if my phone isn’t nearby.
This update also works quite well with Nest cameras. While I don’t use this feature frequently, it becomes beneficial when I don’t feel like reaching for my phone. It allows me to conveniently check who’s at the door with ease.
Now, I can easily watch the video feed directly on my Google Pixel Watch. Sometimes, the small things bring the most joy—just like this feature.
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Gemini has become even more helpful:
Especially it understands some smart home commands:
When Google introduced Gemini on phones, replacing Google Assistant, users faced some challenges in accessing smart home controls via voice. However, last fall, Google integrated some of the Assistant’s capabilities into Gemini, which enhanced its functionality and made creating custom automation easier.
Creating a smart home routine with Gemini takes the “Help Me Script” feature, launched last year, to the next level. The system simplifies automated automation by eliminating the need for complex coding. Gemini makes this process even smoother, allowing me to set up automation with just a conversation.
For example, I can set up my holiday lights in Google Home and then ask Gemini to turn them on 30 minutes before sunset and off at 9 at night. While this setting is also possible in the Google Home app, doing it through Gemini saves both time and effort.
Control Your TV in a Big Way
After 4 years, Google TV Chromecast has arrived with a hardware update, introducing a new side panel feature in Google Home. This gives complete control over your smart home devices, allowing you to manage everything from lights to door locks and cameras. Controlling these devices has become incredibly simple with a single remote button.
Just as watching Nest cameras on the watch is convenient, checking the doorbell no longer requires reaching for your phone. This is one of those updates that truly makes life easier.
While it won’t become my primary way of controlling Google Home, it’s a great additional option. In certain situations, like managing the doorbell, it proves to be the easiest method.
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New update for Nest cameras and Gemini support
A new update for Nest cameras, combined with Gemini’s assistance, has made these cameras even better. Gemini has introduced two fantastic features to these cameras, one of which is using AI to provide detailed insights.
Previously, Google cameras would only notify us if they spotted a dog, a person, or a car. Now, they go a step further by explaining what’s happening.
For example, if my kids ride their bikes in the front yard, the notification will say, “The kids are riding bikes in the front yard.”
These details are genuinely helpful because they allow us to understand the activity instead of just seeing it.
Convenience through search history
Gemini makes Nest cameras even more helpful with the search history feature. This comes in handy when you can’t remember a notification or forget to check it.
For example, I received an email saying my parcel was delivered, but when I got home, it wasn’t there. In such cases, I can simply ask Gemini, “Did the delivery truck come?” and it will instantly provide me with the answer.
The best part is that you don’t need to use specific words. You can talk to Gemini like you’re chatting with a friend, and it will give you the information you need.
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It’s not complete yet, but there’s hope.
Currently, integration is not possible, but it’s expected in the future. For now, Google Assistant and Gemini remain two separate products that are similar but offer different features. Some features are present in one but not the other. As Gemini continues to improve, it will address some of the challenges faced in managing Google’s smart home devices.
Although the Google Home app isn’t fully perfected yet, it is improving. Some features are still a bit complex, and there are several features I would like to see added. However, the progress Google is making is encouraging, and I hope that even better updates will be released in the future, making life easier through smart home devices.