smart home technology Archives

AppWizard

May 25, 2026

I build helpful smart home automations with this Nest feature in the Google Home app

The Google Home and Nest ecosystems enable automated smart home functions through preset commands that trigger actions based on specific conditions. The Google Home app has been redesigned to simplify the creation of automations, allowing users to build custom automations or use Gemini, an AI tool that generates automations. Google has also introduced Google Home Premium, an AI-driven subscription service that replaces Nest Aware. The new automations editor enhances user experience and offers more versatile automation options. The Google Nest Hub Max is highlighted as a key device that integrates seamlessly with the Google Home app for effective automation control.

AppWizard

May 6, 2026

Google Home’s latest update fixes the worst part of smart cameras

Google is set to unveil a comprehensive update to the Google Home app in Spring 2026, featuring a complete overhaul focused on speed, performance, and a more intuitive interface. The update includes faster performance, smoother scrolling, and a modernized camera experience. AI integration will allow cameras to collaborate for clearer narratives, with features for swiping between views, resizing the video player, and skipping clips using 10-second jump buttons. Gemini 3.1 will enhance the voice assistant, enabling users to execute complex, multi-step commands in a single request. The app will also feature a revamped event details page, improved frame rates, and reduced lag, with Google Home Premium users receiving Gemini-generated event summaries. The camera settings menu will be simplified, consolidating all "seen" and "heard" events onto a single page. Additional home automation features will allow users to manage kitchen appliances, control robot vacuums, check smart lock statuses, and monitor battery levels. The "Ask Home on Web" feature will enter Public Preview, enabling users to search camera history, check device statuses, and set up automations from their desktops.

AppWizard

May 1, 2026

Google Home’s camera feed, media controls get upgraded in all the right ways

Google Home is rolling out a significant update for its app and Gemini for Home. All users will receive an enhanced media control interface, while Premium users on the Advanced plan will gain access to new "AI descriptors" for smart cameras. The update includes a modernized camera interface with dynamic theming and improved contextual logic for Gemini, reducing errors and enhancing response times for commands in English, French, and Spanish. The Continued Conversations feature allows Gemini to remain attentive longer, enabling users to complete their thoughts or ask follow-up questions without interruption.

AppWizard

April 28, 2026

Google warns phone actions are getting cut from its smart home automations very soon

Starting in the first week of May, Google will remove "phone actions and automations" from its Nest devices, which include features like checking battery levels, toggling Do Not Disturb settings, and adjusting phone volume. While these phone-related actions will be phased out, core home automations will remain functional. Google has introduced a new feature for its Gemini platform called "Continued Conversations," allowing users to engage in extended dialogues without repeating context. Additionally, some Nest Hub users are experiencing a glitch where alarms set for PM are announced as AM.

AppWizard

April 3, 2026

Workspace account? No problem; Google Home rolls out support for you, too

Google has rolled out support for Workspace accounts within its Home app, allowing users to set up the latest Nest devices and invite others for collaborative device control. The update includes improvements to the AI's responsiveness, reducing lag time by approximately 30% to 40% and enhancing its ability to understand user commands. Users should be aware that access to certain features may depend on their Workspace account settings, and they are advised to consult their administrator for assistance if issues arise.

AppWizard

March 18, 2026

Google’s Gemini for Home is finally useful enough to not drive you crazy

Google is updating its Gemini-powered home assistant to enhance user experience by providing concise responses and executing common commands up to 40% faster. Users will now receive straightforward confirmations for actions like setting alarms. The assistant can set timers based on real-world events and chain multiple commands while providing updates on timers. Gemini now supports 30 languages, enabling real-time translation for smoother conversations. The Google Home app includes new automation tools for triggering actions based on conditions and creating personalized routines. New AI features like “Help me create” and “Ask Home” simplify automation processes. Google is expanding access to these features to 14 additional countries, including Canada, which now has full support. Some features require a Google Home Premium subscription, and users may experience delays in receiving updates.

AppWizard

January 26, 2026

Google Home is finally making devices easier to add

Google has introduced a new feature in the Google Home app that allows users to manually search for smart home devices when QR code scanning or automatic pairing fails. The feature, labeled "Add a different way," includes a curated list of supported brands and a search bar for easier device location. The updated pairing flow also incorporates device images for visual confirmation. This feature is being rolled out with the Google Home app version 4.6.55.1 and will reach a broader user base shortly. Users are advised to update their app to access the new feature, which may be rolled out gradually.

AppWizard

November 1, 2025

3 widgets I can’t wait to try on Android Auto

Google is introducing home screen widget support for Android Auto, currently codenamed “Earth.” This feature is in early stages and has limitations, such as not supporting all widgets or allowing multiple installations simultaneously. Among the potential widgets is Fuelio, which tracks refueling expenses and locates gas stations, offering Quick Actions for logging refueling and Trip Control for journey recording. The Google Home Favorites widget allows users to control smart devices from their car. The KWGT app enables users to design custom widgets for personalized functionality.

AppWizard

July 28, 2025

Home Assistant app update brings new invite flow

Home Assistant is an open-source platform for managing smart home devices, allowing users to create personalized and automated living environments. It supports a wide range of devices, enables users to set up complex automation routines, and offers community resources for enhancement. The platform prioritizes privacy by operating locally, ensuring user data is not sent to the cloud.

AppWizard

July 23, 2025

I continue to use Google Home and its speakers, but I hate everything about it

Since the debut of the Google Home speaker in November 2016, many users have integrated it into their lives, often expressing frustrations with its functionality. A long-time user has accumulated various Google devices, including two Nest Audios, a Pixel Tablet, and a Nest Hub. A recent survey indicated that many users remain loyal to Google Home due to their significant investments in the ecosystem. Common issues reported by users include unresponsive speakers, inconsistent voice recognition, failures to execute commands, delays in response times, and difficulties syncing music across devices. The Google Home app has improved but still poses challenges, particularly for users with multiple devices, as the interface can be cluttered and lacks customizable sorting options. Many users continue using Google Home due to sunk costs, familiarity with the platform, and hope for future updates that may enhance their experience.