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Google Home fall update brings a host of new features

Pabio November 13, 2024

Google Home’s fall update brings Gemini AI to Nest cameras, smart home tools, and wearable devices.
New integrations for Pixel Watch, Nest Cam, and Nest Doorbell for improved smart home control.
Google TV update adds home controls, live camera feeds, and improved show information.

Google Home is arguably the best smart home ecosystem on the market. It’s about to get even better now that Google has announced a massive fall update for everything from your Nest speakers to your TV powered by Googleand everything else.

The update brings Gemini AI to almost everything (via Google Nest Community). But there are also device enhancements, smart home integrations, and better notifications on connected wearable devices. This is a big feature dump that affects every one of your Google smart home devices.

It all depends on Google’s Gemini AI model (of course)

Google AI camera search on two Pixel phone screens side by side.

Source: Google

We knew Gemini and Nest were going to merge at some point, so finding AI cameras with Nest cameras isn’t a surprise. You can now search camera history with natural language queries, such as “Did anyone deliver a package today?” »

This feature is limited to Nest Aware Plus subscribers, and even then only some of them. But it shows the potential for the future of Nest cameras.

Gemini is also added to many other Google Home tools. Home automation gets AI treatment with a new Help Me Create tool, which uses Gemini to simplify routine creation. You no longer need to navigate multiple menus and solve complex logic puzzles. Just describe what you want in simple language, for example: “Turn on the Christmas lights outside, listen to my playlist of Christmas songs on the Nest speaker in the living room, and turn on the Christmas tree lights every night at sunset.” Gemini will configure it for you.

The update also includes a new Google Home extension for the Gemini app. You can now manage your lights, thermostats and other smart devices directly from Gemini.

Extensive smart home integrations for more control

A man wearing a Pixel Watch and looking at the view from his Nest camera.

It’s not just AI. The fall update includes integrations with the Google Pixel Watch. Nest Cam and Nest Doorbell feeds are now visible on your wrist. You can check who’s at the door while you’re jogging. The Pixel tablet will also display Nest Doorbell notifications, with two-way talk and quick replies options.

Google TV is also getting a little more love

Screenshot of an enhanced Google TV preview on a TV.

Source: Google

Google TV now includes home controls in a pop-up panel. You can access and control your smart home and view live camera feeds from the TV in case your Pixel, Pixel Tablet, or Pixel Watch isn’t there.

There is also a new and improved presentation feature for popular shows. This will give you more information about a show and should help you choose what to watch. It is not available for all shows or all providers.

There are also many other features for your home devices, including: