By CEDIA - Tue, Sep 24, 2024 - Blog
Key takeaways:
With Google Assistant installed in 1 billion devices around the world, it’s safe to say that the smart home trend is on the up. Among other ecosystems like Apple Home and Amazon Alexa, the Google Home App offers a central hub for smart home devices.
This comprises a suite of Google Nest products, which support Google Home smart speakers. These can greatly enhance your life, from automating heating to home entertainment.
Google Home started when the brand launched its first smart speaker in 2016 and then acquired the Nest product range, including thermostats and carbon monoxide detectors. By 2019, Google had migrated all Nest products to its own smart home brand, powered by Google Assistant.
Today, Google’s product portfolio includes home speakers, doorbells, streaming devices, home entertainment and WiFi. You can use these to perform a range of functions in your home, helping to save on energy bills, improve security and have fun.
You can control your devices remotely by connecting Google Home to WiFi and Bluetooth. Start by plugging in your device, such as the Google Nest Mini. Then connect to the internet and download the Google Home app (Android 9.0 or above). Here you’ll find device categories, controls and household routines.
Google Home can be used to control and customise smart devices such as:
To connect your device, first you can check if it’s compatible here. Have the instructions for your device to hand and open the Google Home app. Tap ‘Devices’, then ‘Add’ and select the brand from a list. Follow the instructions in the app. You must have high-speed internet connectivity to do this.
Once you’re connected, you can control your Google home devices with voice commands. Simply start by saying, “Hey Google!” or “OK Google”.
The great thing about creating a smart home ecosystem is that you can integrate other brands. While Google has a vast range of products such as the Nest Hub Max, Nest Learning Thermostat and Nest Cameras, it can work with other systems.
For example, you might connect Apple gadgets to play music on your speakers through Spotify. You can also automate your smart home hub to create routines. For example, you might power up smart lights in your living room at a certain time each evening. You can also set up notifications for security systems – such as Nest doorbell alerts when you’re away.
These controls work throughout the house. You can even use home control when you’re out and about – as long as you have a connected mobile device.
Simply connect to your router for even more advanced, hands-free Google Home features. This includes casting images from your device – for example, sharing a livestream from an Android phone to a smart TV.
The Google Nest Hub can be programmed to recognise your voice, offering advanced personalisation. With this, you can create custom routines. For example, you might have smart locks set to timers so your family can come and go as they please.
Google’s home automation software offers convenience, entertainment and strong home security. Customise it based on your preferences and connect seamlessly to your devices.
Products like Google’s Nest Cam have been designed for DIY home setup. More advanced installations will benefit from a professional integrator, though – particularly when we consider connectivity or cyber security.
If you’ve got a vast home renovation project, it’s best to speak to a pro like a CEDIA integrator. They can help you overcome any construction issues or setting up wired AV racks. Likewise, they are on hand with troubleshooting and support, ideal if you’re experiencing connection issues.
CEDIA-certified installers are totally brand agnostic. That means they can help you out with the best tech – whether you’re using a Pixel tablet or Apple iOS. For ongoing support and long-term connectivity, you can speak to one of our professionals.
