Google's Gemini AI smart home controls are now available to everyone

Google has officially decided to make its Gemini AI smart home controls available to everyone. Previously focused on managing Google Workspace apps, Google Maps, YouTube, YouTube Music and more, this extension expands Gemini’s capabilities to include controlling and managing Google Home-connected smart devices. Users can now download the Gemini app on Android and iOS to access these enhanced features.

The extension follows a major enhancement to Gemini, enabling it to perform more complex tasks across multiple apps seamlessly. Additionally, the Nest Protect smart smoke and CO2 alarm has been integrated into the Google Home app, allowing users to monitor and manage their smoke alarms alongside other smart devices in one unified platform.

The update was initially released as a public preview in November 2024 and is now expected to roll out globally over the coming weeks.

Once the extension becomes available, users can enable it through the Gemini web client or the mobile app. According to Google's support page, it can control a wide range of smart home devices, including lights, sockets, switches, air conditioners, thermostats, fans, curtains, smart TVs, speakers, washing machines and more. However, these devices must be connected to Google Home for the extension to function. Gemini also allows users to issue complex, multi-step commands, and the AI chatbot will handle them effortlessly.

However, there are some noted limitations. Currently, the extension only supports prompts in English, restricting its usability for non-English speakers. It also cannot process commands for security devices that require a PIN, stream video feeds from cameras, or execute preconfigured routines.