The Gemini artificial intelligence (AI) assistant is getting support for a new extension that will allow users to control their smart home devices. The AI-powered virtual assistant for Android devices is receiving regular extension support to perform more tasks on the device and match the performance level of the older Google Assistant. Currently, Gemini Assistant can manage Google Workspace apps, Google Maps, YouTube, YouTube Music, and more. There is also rumor of support for calling and messaging on the lock screen.
Google Home extension added to Gemini
In its support pages, Google detailed the new extension for its in-house AI chatbot Gemini. Android device users who install the Gemini app and set Gemini as the default virtual assistant can access the Google Home extension. However, users need to ensure that both the Gemini app and the smart home device are linked to the same Google account.
Google said users will be able to access smart home devices like lights, sockets, switches, air conditioning units, thermostats, fans, curtains, smart TVs, speakers, washing machines and more. However, the extension cannot perform security device actions that require a PIN, stream video feeds from cameras, or execute routines.
Since Gemini is an AI chatbot, it supports natural language prompts which Google Assistant cannot. For example, users can tell the virtual assistant to “set up the dining room for a romantic date night” or “set the AC to a good temperature for sleeping,” and it can understand the needs and complete the tasks. .
To use this functionality, users must first open the Gemini app and sign in to their Google account. They can then ask it to complete a task for smart devices. The app will prompt users to connect the Gemini app to Google Home, at which point users must turn on the extension and allow the app to access and control smart devices connected to the same account.
Notably, this feature is currently available as a public preview and is available to those who have signed up for the Google Home public preview program. The feature works with both text and audio input but can currently only accept English language signs. Gemini AI Assistant is not currently available on iOS.
