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Google Home app

The Google Home app is still so bad, Nest cam users are jumping ship
AppWizard
November 22, 2024

The Google Home app is still so bad, Nest cam users are jumping ship

Google's integration of Nest cameras into the Google Home app has led to user dissatisfaction due to the loss of several features, including the ability to change Wi-Fi networks without a factory reset, adjustable microphone sensitivity, zoom and enhance capabilities, timelapse recordings, safety clips, livestream sharing options, email notifications, Assistant on device, and social sharing of saved clips. Users have expressed frustration, particularly about the Wi-Fi setting issue, prompting some to consider alternatives like UniFi cameras. A poll indicates that a majority of Nest camera users prefer the original Nest app over the Google Home app.
Older Nest cameras are getting the Google Home app treatment
AppWizard
November 19, 2024

Older Nest cameras are getting the Google Home app treatment

Google has launched a public preview of the Home app that supports Nest Cam IQ models from 2017, consolidating all Nest cameras released since 2015 into a single platform. The transition from the Nest app to the Home app allows users to manage Nest cameras in one location, providing features like video history and camera settings. Advanced functionalities include quick access to live streams, automation with smart lights, and viewing camera feeds on devices like the Pixel Watch 3 or Google TV Streamer. The rollout began in late 2023, with users able to join the Public Preview program through the Home app or home.google.com. Users can revert their Nest Cam IQ cameras back to the Nest app, but the Nest Hub Max cannot be returned once moved to the Home app. The Supersight feature from the Nest Cam IQ is not yet available in the Home app, and Google plans to integrate more features from the Nest app in the future.
Google Home tipped to integrate support for dangerous air quality sensors
AppWizard
November 12, 2024

Google Home tipped to integrate support for dangerous air quality sensors

A recent exploration of a test version of the Google Home app has revealed code strings suggesting potential support for carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, allowing users to receive alerts about hazardous air quality and sensor testing. Currently, the Nest app is the only platform managing these sensors, but integration into the Google Home app could create a more unified control system. The Matter 1.2 upgrade includes provisions for smoke and CO detector support, aiming to reduce the number of apps needed for device management. The timeline for the launch of a potential "future Nest Protect" remains unclear.
Google Home could soon support smoke and CO sensors (APK teardown)
AppWizard
November 12, 2024

Google Home could soon support smoke and CO sensors (APK teardown)

The Google Home app is expected to integrate support for smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) sensors, enhancing user experience for smart home safety. An APK teardown revealed code indicating the app will allow location-based functionality for managing smoke and CO devices, notifications for detection alerts, testing capabilities for device functionality, and alerts for device maintenance. This integration aims to consolidate control over safety devices within the app, improving automation and user convenience. Compatibility with the existing Nest Protect model is still uncertain.
Google is working on a new widget for your smart home (APK teardown)
AppWizard
November 12, 2024

Google is working on a new widget for your smart home (APK teardown)

The Google Home app is being enhanced with a new feature called the "Home Summary" widget, which is currently in internal testing. This widget is designed to provide users with a concise overview of their smart home devices and related events, potentially using AI to generate updates on the home screen. Although not yet available to the public, it may include features such as temperature readings from the thermostat, aiming to simplify the management of multiple smart devices. The widget's development indicates a growing demand for more intuitive smart home management solutions.
Gemini can adjust your smart home accessories with Google Home integration
AppWizard
November 1, 2024

Gemini can adjust your smart home accessories with Google Home integration

Google is rolling out new Gemini extensions, particularly for the Google Home app, starting this week for participants in the Public Preview on Android. Gemini will replace Google Assistant, allowing users to control smart home devices using natural language. The integration enables actions like closing blinds or starting a robot vacuum without needing Google Assistant. Users can access the Google Home extension by enrolling in the Public Preview through the app. This feature is currently available only on Android phones and supports English prompts, but does not control smart security devices. The broader release is expected soon.
An app update has broken casting from Spotify to Google Home speakers
AppWizard
October 25, 2024

An app update has broken casting from Spotify to Google Home speakers

Spotify Premium users are experiencing difficulties casting music to Google Home and Google-enabled speakers, primarily due to a recent update of the Google Home app. While the app indicates that Spotify is playing, playback does not progress, resulting in no audio. This issue seems to affect only Premium subscribers, as free account users report normal functionality. Google has acknowledged the problem and is working on a fix through an app update. Users have attempted various troubleshooting measures, including resetting devices and updating apps, but none have been successful.
Google Home outage breaks app Settings, Activity feed
AppWizard
October 4, 2024

Google Home outage breaks app Settings, Activity feed

The Google Home app is currently experiencing disruptions with its Activity feed and Settings access. Users can still manage devices, control Google Wifi, and execute routines, but the Activity feed is not functioning, and the Settings screen is inaccessible. Despite these issues, core functionalities for operating connected devices remain intact. The Google team is investigating the problems, and users are awaiting updates on the situation.
I've already ditched the new Google Home widget and watch tile
AppWizard
July 16, 2024

I’ve already ditched the new Google Home widget and watch tile

- Google Home team took a long time to release a home screen widget to control smart home devices - To use the widget, users have to join the Preview program, which may render Chromecasts inaccessible - The widget only allows an all-or-nothing approach for favorites, limiting controls for devices - Some devices show a small arrow indicating more controls, but this is not available for all device types - The widget lacks scene or routine support and has buggy behaviors like disappearing icons and slow updates - The Google Home Wear OS tile allows for shortcuts to favorite devices but lacks names or indications of what each controls - The Wear OS tile is not useful for users with multiple devices of the same type in different rooms - The author finds the widget and Wear OS tile not worth keeping due to limitations and lack of usability.
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