What you need to know
- Google is starting to roll out a slew of new Gemini extensions, including the Google Home app.
- Users enrolled in the Public Preview for Google Home should start seeing the integration in the Gemini app for Android this week, with a gradual rollout over the next few weeks.
- You’ll be able to ask Gemini to make changes to your Home in natural language, and the Gemini extension will replace the Google Assistant.
Gemini is on a path to replace the Google Assistant and is set to gain essential functionality previously reserved for Assistant. The ability to control your smart home with a Google Home extension in the Gemini app is now rolling out for users enrolled in the Public Preview for Google Home on Android. The gradual rollout will continue over the coming weeks.
Once you have access to the new Google Home extension, Gemini can control your smart home without needing to invoke the Google Assistant. The extension can perform tasks like activating scenes, changing the status of connected accessories, and more. The difference with using Gemini is that you can use natural language instead of specific word choices to get things done.
For instance, telling Gemini “the sun is too bright in the living room” will prompt the AI assistant to close the smart window blinds in your home. Similarly, saying “help me clean up the kitchen” will initiate a robot vacuum.
To try out these new features, open the Google Home app on your Android device. Tap the Settings button, then select Public Preview. Press Join Public Preview to enroll your account. You should soon have access to the Google Home extension for Gemini.
There are a few limitations to note. The extension is only available on Android phones and supports English prompts. Furthermore, Gemini cannot control smart security devices like gates, cameras, locks, doors, and garage doors. For devices without Gemini, such as Nest smart speakers and displays, Google Assistant will still be used.
If you’re enrolled in the early preview, you can test the Google Home extension in the Gemini app today, with a wider release expected in the future.
Pixel power
The Google Pixel 9 Pro is equipped with a powerful Tensor chip, allowing it to handle fun and useful AI features on-device. Gemini is also included, allowing you to control your smart devices or have full-on conversations for a bit of inspiration.