Google has unveiled Gemini for Home, a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing the smart home experience through a suite of applications, devices, and voice assistant capabilities. This initiative is set to roll out in multiple phases, with specific features becoming available at different times and in various regions.
Current Rollout (Starting October 1, 2025):
The redesigned Google Home app, featuring a streamlined interface with three tabs in the bottom navigation bar, is now being deployed globally. Users should ensure they have updated to version 4.0 to access these enhancements. This update introduces a new home screen icon and is being implemented through a server-side update.
A notable addition to the app is the Ask Home feature, which offers a search and chat experience within the Google Home environment. As of now, this feature is accessible in the following countries:
– United States (English)
– Canada (English and French)
– United Kingdom (English)
– Ireland (English)
– Australia (English)
– New Zealand (English)
The Ask Home feature provides several functionalities:
– Quick Search: Users can swiftly locate devices and automations by typing into the search bar, with instant results and relevant suggestions appearing as they type.
– Simple Device Queries: Users can inquire about the status of their devices with questions like, Which lights are on? or Is the front door locked?
– Real-Time Device Control: Users can issue commands such as Close all blinds, and the system will execute the command immediately.
These features are available to all users at no additional cost.
For those subscribed to Google Home Premium Standard, additional functionalities include:
– Automation Creation: Users can create automations using natural language commands. For example, setting up recurring automations like Turn off all lights whenever we are away, or one-time automations such as Later this evening at 7 PM, make the living room warm and play our favorite music.
– Saved Information: The system can remember user preferences and household details, such as favorite colors, to personalize the user experience.
Subscribers to Google Home Premium Advanced gain access to:
– AI Descriptions and Notifications: Camera events are accompanied by detailed captions, providing more context than generic labels like person or package. These detailed descriptions are also included in camera notifications.
– Search Video History: Users can search for specific events recorded by their cameras by asking questions like Did the dog go outside today?
– Home Brief: A daily summary of significant events captured by cameras is provided each evening.
Upcoming Rollouts:
Later in October 2025, Google plans to introduce early access to Gemini for Home on Nest Hubs, Audio, and Mini devices. This rollout will occur over time, with the eventual replacement of Google Assistant on these devices. Notably, both free and paid versions of Gemini for Home will be available.
In early 2026, Gemini is expected to be integrated into Google TV, aiming to make interactions with televisions more intuitive and helpful. This integration will facilitate easier media searches and the ability to ask questions on various topics, with results potentially including YouTube videos. The rollout is anticipated to begin later in the year on select Google TV devices, with TCL and Hisense named as initial partners.
By spring 2026, further expansions and enhancements to the Gemini for Home ecosystem are anticipated, although specific details have yet to be announced.
Google’s phased rollout of Gemini for Home underscores its commitment to evolving the smart home experience, offering users more intuitive and personalized interactions with their devices.
