Google updates its smart home devices

Google has released updates for its Home app and a range of connected devices, addressing various issues and adding new features. The update includes fixes for minor connectivity problems affecting cameras and doorbells, as well as improvements to Gemini's spatial awareness within the home.

Improvements in room recognition and music transfer

Gemini for Home is receiving improvements in its ability to transfer music from one room to another. Users with multiple Google Home speakers can now use voice commands to ask one of them to transfer sound, with Google stating that Gemini now understands these commands better and identifies rooms more accurately.

Fixes for volume and command issues

The update also addresses issues concerning volume with timers and alarms, spontaneous responses from speakers and screens, and more reliable YouTube TV commands on connected screens. Fixes related to the Google Home app include resolving major bugs when users attempt to access a live view of a camera.

Resolving iOS and Android issues

For iOS users, the issue of scrolling to the end of an event and receiving an "Unplayable video" error should be resolved. On foldable Android smartphones, watching a live event while folding or unfolding the device caused an error, which is now resolved.

Nest device updates and connectivity fixes

Software updates for several Nest devices have been moved to the Google Home app, continuing Google's gradual removal of the old Nest app. Issues with connectivity for Nest outdoor cameras, particularly in bad weather, have been reported by users, with some requiring additional devices like repeaters to maintain a stable connection.

Fixes for thermostat status and doorbell features

During brief power outages, Nest thermostats were incorrectly shown as "offline," even though the associated heating and cooling systems were functioning. According to Google, this issue was caused by a specific iOS bug that has now been fixed. For users of 1st generation wired Nest doorbells, the software update includes improvements in familiar face detection and audio/video synchronization.