Google Home devices are in for a significant upgrade. Starting October 1, Google will announce Gemini for smart speakers and displays and subsequently replace Google Assistant with it on these devices. And we have huge expectations from this upgrade. As part of the Public Preview program, the upgrade brings support for lights, thermostats, smart plugs, and even locks.
Functionally, the interface mirrors the Google Home tablet layout. Devices are grouped alphabetically by room in a list on the right, with a sidebar that makes it easy to visit specific sections. The familiar tile grid makes an appearance, with one-tap on/off toggles. You can bump the thermostat temperature up or down, and the overflow menu offers modes like Heat, Cool, Heat + Cool, and Off. Smart plugs and locks also work as expected.
Google admits the rollout is unfinished. It’s just a preview, so far, “some features may be limited,” with promises that “more device types and controls are coming soon.” It’s an incremental update.
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