Gemini Replaces Google Assistant
Google is officially rolling out Gemini for Home, replacing Google Assistant on smart home devices starting this month. The shift marks a move toward a more natural, conversational experience, where rigid commands give way to context-driven interactions. Users will still need the “Hey Google” wake word, but Gemini can now interpret intent more flexibly. For example, saying “I’m about to watch a movie, turn off the lights” will dim the living room lights specifically. Multiple requests can be bundled into one sentence, and automations can be created by voice without using the Google Home app.
Smarter AI Features
Gemini’s improvements extend beyond voice. With Ask Home, users can query their system using natural language: “Did I leave the car door open?” or “Show me when someone came to the front door.” This feature leverages Gemini’s semantic understanding of visual data, similar to Ask Photos in Google Photos. Meanwhile, Home Brief offers digestible summaries of recorded footage, condensing hours of video into key highlights. Motion-triggered notifications will also be smarter, alerting users to events that matter most.
Device Compatibility and Costs
Gemini for Home will work with all Google smart devices released in the past decade, including upcoming Gemini-compatible cameras and doorbells developed with Walmart. However, premium features like Gemini Live chats, AI-powered notifications, Ask Home, and Home Brief will require a Google Home Premium subscription costing $10 per month. The subscription also adds 30 days of cloud storage for smart home video and is bundled with Google’s AI Pro and Ultra plans at no extra cost.
Rollout and Early Access
Early access to Gemini for Home is available through the Google Home app, with updates rolling out across October. Smart speakers and displays are scheduled to receive Gemini support by the end of the month. The update positions Google to make its smart home ecosystem more intuitive, blending natural conversation, automation, and AI-powered video analysis into everyday use.
