In a recent update, Google has introduced several significant features to its Home app, most of which are now accessible through a public preview. Users can sign up for the preview here. Among the standout enhancements is the addition of picture-in-picture support for Nest Cams, which allows users to view multiple camera feeds on their Google TV screens—a welcome feature that many have noted could have arrived sooner.
Artificial intelligence continues to play a pivotal role in Google’s developments. The Gemini platform now supports expanded smart home controls, enabling users to broadcast commands through connected speakers or search camera footage via typed queries within the Gemini app. Voice commands for these functions remain unavailable for the time being, as Google integrates more advanced capabilities into the Gemini framework that previously fell under the Google Assistant’s purview.
Users of the Google Home app linked to cameras can now navigate recorded footage with ease, able to skip forward or backward in second intervals by tapping the sides of their device’s screen, similar to the controls found in mobile YouTube.
Customization options within the Home app have also seen improvements. Users can now create automations with fewer steps and more detailed specifications. New features allow automations to be triggered based on presence detection, utilizing both mobile locations and Soli sensors in certain Google Nest products to confirm home occupancy.
The Nest Protect’s smoke and carbon monoxide monitoring has moved into the Home app, eliminating the need for the standalone Nest app. Users can now receive critical safety alerts, perform safety checks, and silence alarms directly from the Home interface.
The app now supports third-party Matter-enabled smart locks, allowing for a variety of settings including guest management, passcode edits, and lock notifications.
Favorites in the app are set to get a significant expansion, offering new tile types such as an indoor temperature display, Wi-Fi controls, and an integrated light switch that can toggle all lights on or off. Additionally, users can configure Favorites for various devices including smart watches and tablets, not just phones.
For users operating remotely, Google Home’s web controls will allow modifications through a browser, including the ability to adjust lighting, set temperatures, and unlock doors. The company indicates that more options are in the pipeline for public preview.
Lastly, the Home Summary widget showcased during I/O 2025 is now available for select users on an invite-only basis for testing.
