Google has announced a significant update to its Google Home app, which now includes support for Nest Protect smoke and CO alarms. This update is part of the Public Preview program and marks a major step forward in integrating Google’s ecosystem of smart home devices. Before this update, Nest Protect devices were among the last of the Nest products still requiring the older Nest app for full functionality.
Now, users can manage their smoke alarms directly through the Google Home app. Nest Protect devices should already appear in the app for those enrolled in the Google Home Public Preview on Android (version 3.27 or higher). This integration brings several key features:
- Emergency Notifications: Receive real-time alerts for smoke and carbon monoxide detection.
- Critical Status Alerts: Notifications for battery health and other device issues.
- Safety Checkup: Run system-wide tests to ensure sensors, power, Wi-Fi connection, speaker, horn, and light ring function correctly
Google Home app integration expands
Automatic Sound Check: Schedule sound checks when you’re away from home. 5.
Configuration Options: Change both system-wide and alarm-specific settings as needed. 6. E911 Calling for Nest Aware Subscribers: U.S. subscribers to Nest Aware can contact emergency services near their home directly through the Google Home app, even when they are not at home.
The user interface for these features is designed to be straightforward, showing recent safety check information and confirming the status of the alarms. Users can also move devices to different rooms to customize their Google Home app setup. In addition to these updates, Google is also enhancing support for Matter smart locks within the Google Home app.
This includes passcode management and various settings adjustments. Users can share and edit passcodes for household members and guests, assign labels, and customize the experience. Other control features include one-tap entry, locking, vacation mode, and push notifications for lock events.
These updates aim to provide an even more seamless and integrated experience for smart home users. The new features for Matter locks are rolling out starting this week, while the Nest Protect updates are already live.
