Google is integrating a Google Home extension into its Gemini app, enabling users to manage their smart home devices directly through the AI assistant.
Available to Android users in the Google Home Public Preview program, this update allows you to issue natural language commands—like “Set the dining room for a romantic date night” to adjust the lighting or “Help me clean up the kitchen” to activate the vacuum.
Previously, attempting to control smart home devices through the Gemini app would prompt Google Assistant to open.
Now, with the new Google Home extension, users can manage various smart home functions—such as lighting, climate control, window blinds, TVs, speakers, and more—directly within the Gemini app.
However, the extension in Gemini does not support all types of smart devices.
Google notes that for security-related devices, including cameras, locks, gates, and doors, the app will still direct you to Google Home for controls. Additionally, the extension doesn’t yet support routines.
Amazon is also making strides toward enabling natural language commands in Alexa, with a preview already available that includes parts of this functionality.
A full AI update for Alexa is expected next year. Meanwhile, Apple is planning an upgrade for Siri with Apple Intelligence, though it currently lacks smart home integration.
To access the Google Home extension in Gemini, you’ll need to sign up for the Google Home Public Preview. Currently, the feature is only available in English.
Once you have the extension, sign into the Gemini app using the same account linked to Google Home.
From there, you can issue specific commands like “turn on living room lights.” If the Gemini app doesn’t automatically activate the extension, you may need to include “@Google Home” in your request.
