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What you need to know

• A dive into a “test build” of the Google Home app revealed several strings pointing to support for CO/smoke detectors.

• Various strings of code detail alerts to users about dangerous air quality in their home and sensor tests.

• More devices have been added to Google Home since Matter support arrived, but its Nest app is the only way to control its CO/smoke sensors.

Google may consider integrating new sensors that protect users from dangerous atmospheric conditions at home.

Google is reportedly developing new sensor support for the Home app, according to an in-depth analysis by AssembleDebug (Android Authority). According to the tipster, various strings of a “test version” of Google Home suggest that the app will implement support for CO (carbon monoxide) and smoke detectors.

This support would apparently be joined by a series of new alerts sent to a user’s phone. The code showed warning signs informing users if “smoke levels are too high.” Additional alerts were discovered, informing users of dangerous levels of CO and smoke detected by the sensor and prompting them to exit the house for “fresh air.”

The Home app will apparently allow users to test their sensors to ensure its functionality is working.

More importantly, the publication notes the existence of smoke and CO sensors created by Google under the moniker “Nest.” However, accompanying consumers can only use their features through the Nest app. It is speculated that the app’s hidden code could indicate an upcoming integration between the Nest app and Google Home. If true, it would remove the need for this additional app and bring everything under the roof of the Home app.

Consumers are undoubtedly familiar with the term “Matter,” the new industrial connectivity standard for linking smart home devices. In 2022, Google boarded the Matter train with the Home app as it deployed support for Home Mini, Hub Max, Wifi Pro and Nest Audio. The company later expanded support to more smart home devices and brands.

It is not specifically mentioned that these air quality sensors will be integrated into the Matter standard, but it is possible. THE Matter 1.2 upgrade includes support for smoke and CO detectors, as CSA has refined by reducing the number of app “hubs” consumers need to control their devices. It is likely that Google’s potential inclusion of its smoke and CO sensors In the Home app – not in a separate Nest app – will continue this “centralized hub” idea.

Unfortunately, without more concrete evidence, it’s unclear if and when Google will roll it out. The post wonders if the company has a “future Nest Protect” in the works for this medium, but that’s just speculation for now.