Google Home Enhances Automation Features and User Control
Google Home has introduced a series of updates aimed at enhancing user experience and automation capabilities. The latest release, dated February 17, 2026, brings several notable features and improvements.
Introduction of Pre-Defined Voice Assistant Actions
Users can now access a set of pre-defined voice assistant actions within the Google Home app’s automation editor, specifically under the Devices action type for smart speakers and displays. These actions include:
– Announce current time
– Announce today’s weather
– Ask what time to set an alarm
– Play chime
– Play music
– Play news
– Play podcast
– Play radio
– Play sleep sounds
– Tell a joke
It’s important to note that these pre-defined actions are currently not supported when using the Ask Home or Help me create features. However, users can still utilize the Ask Google action for custom commands. Google has indicated ongoing efforts to expand support for home automation capabilities.
Ability to Delete Pre-Made Routines
In response to user feedback, Google Home now allows the deletion of pre-made routines such as Good morning, Bedtime, and Workday. This enhancement provides users with more space to view and manage their custom automations. To delete a pre-made routine, users can tap the trash icon located in the top-right corner or access the option through the overflow menu.
Enhanced Feedback Mechanism for Automations
A new feature enables users to provide feedback on specific automations directly from the automation tab. By tapping and holding a particular automation, a feedback menu appears, allowing users to select issues encountered and provide additional information. This streamlined feedback process aims to improve the overall functionality and user satisfaction with Google Home automations.
Improved Video Clip Downloads on Web Interface
Google has implemented a foundational fix to enhance support for continuous video clip downloads of up to five minutes on home.google.com. This improvement ensures that long-form clips remain uninterrupted and can span multiple overlapping short event clips, providing a more seamless experience for users accessing video content through the web interface.
Conclusion
These updates reflect Google’s commitment to refining the Google Home experience by introducing user-friendly features and addressing feedback. The addition of pre-defined voice assistant actions, the ability to delete pre-made routines, an enhanced feedback mechanism, and improved video clip downloads collectively contribute to a more personalized and efficient smart home environment.
