Google Launches New Smart Home Control Feature in Gemini App

2025-01-24

Recently, Google has introduced a new smart home control extension within the Gemini application, enabling users to adjust various connected devices linked to their Google account such as smart lighting, thermostats, speakers, and other compatible gadgets.

This feature was initially showcased by Google in November of last year. Users can interact with Gemini using natural language to control smart home devices. For instance, saying "The sunlight in the living room is too bright" will close the smart curtains. Now, Gemini is capable of executing multiple commands simultaneously, like "Turn on the lamp beside the armchair while dimming the kitchen lights". Furthermore, users can inquire about device statuses through the Google Home extension in Gemini, such as checking if they forgot to turn off the porch light.

Google also permits users to control "non-sensitive" smart home devices from the phone's lock screen, like lights. Other enhancements include adjusting the volume, pausing, and resuming media playback for smart speakers, displays, and TVs within the Gemini app, as well as updating the thermostat control design to match the one inside Google Home. For operations related to security, such as cameras and door locks, Gemini now automatically opens the Google Home app (previously it only provided links).

The launch of this Google Home extension closely follows a significant update to Gemini, which allows it to perform more complex tasks across multiple applications. Users can experience this integration by logging into Gemini with the same account used for Home and enabling the Google Home extension. This feature is available today but will be gradually rolled out over the coming weeks.