Google’s Gemini AI smart home controls are rolling out to everyone

Google Brings Smart Home Controls to Gemini

Google is expanding the capabilities of its Gemini app by introducing smart home controls, allowing users to manage their compatible devices with ease.

New Features and Improvements

The Google Home extension in the Gemini app is gaining a few new features, enabling users to adjust their smart lighting, thermostat, speakers, and other compatible devices as long as they’re connected to their Google account. The extension was first previewed in November and has now been rolled out to everyone.

Natural Language Control

With the Google Home extension, users can use natural language to control their smart home devices when interacting with Gemini. For example, saying “The sun is too bright in the living room” can close smart blinds. Additionally, Gemini can now carry out multiple requests, such as “Turn the armchair light on too, but dim the kitchen lamp.” Users can also ask Gemini about the status of their devices, such as whether they’ve left their porch light on.

Lock Screen Control and More

Google will also allow users to control “non-sensitive” smart home devices, like lights, from their phone’s lock screen. Other updates include the ability to adjust the volume, pause, and resume media on smart speakers, displays, and TVs within the Gemini app, as well as an updated thermostat control design that matches the one inside Google Home. Gemini will also automatically open the Google Home app for security-related actions for cameras and locks.

Availability and Rollout

The launch of the Google Home extension follows a big update to Gemini, which lets it perform more complex tasks across multiple apps. Users can try out the integration for themselves by signing into Gemini with the same account they use for Home and turning on the Google Home extension. The feature is launching today but will be rolling out “over the coming weeks.”

Conclusion

The addition of smart home controls to Gemini makes it a more comprehensive and convenient hub for managing users’ devices. With its natural language control and expanded capabilities, Gemini is poised to become an even more essential part of users’ daily routines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What devices can I control with the Google Home extension in Gemini?
A: You can control smart lighting, thermostat, speakers, and other compatible devices as long as they’re connected to your Google account.

Q: Can I use natural language to control my smart home devices with Gemini?
A: Yes, you can use natural language to control your smart home devices when interacting with Gemini.

Q: Can I control multiple devices at once with Gemini?
A: Yes, Gemini can now carry out multiple requests, such as “Turn the armchair light on too, but dim the kitchen lamp.”

Q: Will I be able to control my smart home devices from my phone’s lock screen?
A: Yes, you will be able to control “non-sensitive” smart home devices, like lights, from your phone’s lock screen.

Q: When will the Google Home extension be available in Gemini?
A: The feature is launching today but will be rolling out “over the coming weeks.”