Google Enhances Smart Home Experience with New Features
Google has announced significant updates to its Google Home ecosystem, aiming to make smart home control more accessible and convenient for users. These updates include a new widget for Android devices and the ability to use Google TV as a smart home hub.
New Google Home Widget for Android
The latest Android Feature Drop introduces a customizable Google Home widget, allowing users to control their smart home devices directly from their home screen. Key features include:
- Two customization options: sync with favorites from the Home app or create a custom layout
- Support for various device types, including lights, plugs, and blinds
- Simple tap controls for toggling devices on/off
- Status updates for devices that may take time to respond
- Extra authentication for sensitive actions like unlocking doors
The widget is currently available to users in the Google Home Public Preview program and is expected to roll out more widely in the future.
Google TV as a Smart Home Hub
Later this year, Google plans to upgrade certain devices to function as smart home hubs for Google Home:
- Chromecast with Google TV
- Select panel TVs with Google TV running Android 14 or higher
- Some LG TVs
This expansion will allow users to centralize their smart home control through their TV, potentially simplifying device management.
Home APIs for Developers
Google is also launching Home APIs, opening up the Google Home platform to third-party developers. This move will enable:
- Integration of smart home controls into non-smart home apps
- Access to over 600 million devices supported by the platform
- New possibilities for automation and device interaction
For example, a food delivery app could potentially control porch lights when a driver is nearby.
Wear OS Integration
Smartwatch users aren't left out, as Google is adding a Google Home Favorites tile and complication to Wear OS. This feature will allow quick smart home control directly from compatible wearables.
These updates demonstrate Google's commitment to enhancing its smart home ecosystem, providing users with more flexible and accessible ways to manage their connected devices. As these features roll out, it will be interesting to see how they impact the smart home landscape and user adoption.
Update: Tuesday June 04 22:57
To access the new Google Home widgets, users need to join the Google Home Public Preview program. This can be done by opening the Google Home app on Android, going to Settings > Public Preview, and selecting "Join Public Preview". Once enrolled, users can look for a flask icon indicating preview status. The widgets display live data, but UI refreshes occur every 30 minutes. While automation features are not yet available, they are listed as coming soon. It's worth noting that actions triggered through the widget may not occur instantly, and widget controls may not be as responsive as using the app directly.