Just one day after Amazon introduced a series of new Echo devices integrated with AI (30.9), Google responded by announcing the new Google Home and Nest product lines, and introducing Gemini AI virtual assistant and smart home development strategy in the AI era, according to Techcrunch.
Google has confirmed that it will continue to produce leading hardware in some categories, but the long-term goal is to bring Gemini closer to manufacturers and businesses, rather than limiting it to devices developed by Google itself.
This approach is similar to the Android model, when Google offered the high-end Pixel line but allowed partners to build smartphones with a variety of designs and prices.
Anish Kat over, product director of Google Home and Nest, said Google wants Gemini to become an open platform, not bound by cost or brand, so that many users have access.
The proof is that a series of new products including Nest Cam Outdoor, Nest Cam indoor and Nest Doorbell all exploit the power of Gemini. Google also revealed that the upgraded version of Google Home will launch in the spring of 2026, along with a low-cost product line in cooperation with Walmart.
Notably, Nest device users can still experience Gemini if the hardware meets the requirements. This is a strategic decision, as Google wants to test AI on over 800 million devices in operation, including third-party products connected via Matter standards and API Google Home Cloud-to-Cloud.
Along with that, Google provides partners with a Works with Google Home toolkit including an AI camera SDK, reference hardware design and SoC recommendations to expand the ecosystem. Walmart becomes the first partner to launch a low-cost smart door camera and bell under the onn brand.
Gemini is designed for users to naturally chat with their homes. You can interrupt, add details, or ask complex questions that the device still understands.
For example, just a vague description of the song in the movie with Ben Affleck flying to a small planet, Gemini can play the song I Dont Want to Miss a thing in Armageddon correctly.
In addition to listening to music, Gemini also helps coordinate family work from making a schedule, shopping list, appointment to turning off the lights, adjusting the temperature or starting a robot to vacuum cleaner.
The ability to understand context helps Gemini go far beyond traditional voice assistants. Users do not need to remember the name of each device but just need to say "right to cook, turn on the lights", AI will understand it as turning on the kitchen lights.
Gemini integrated cameras and door bells can also analyze events and send important summaries instead of dozens of disjointed notifications.
Users can also take advantage of the Ask Home feature to suggest automation scenarios, such as setting up a presence simulation when away to enhance security.
In parallel with the hardware, the Google Home app is redesigned, faster and more stable, adding the ability to summarize camera events, synthesize activities during the day, or quickly find clips as requested.
Some enhanced features will be included in the Google Home Premium package. In addition, Gemini Live mode allows users to chat freely with AI, ask creative questions or motivate ideas without having to repeat Hey Google continuously.
Google said the Home app update is being rolled out as early access, Nest devices and Walmart products are already on the market, while the new generation of Google Home speakers will officially launch in 2026.
With Gemini, Google is realizing its vision of a home that can be seen, heard, understood and acted on your behalf, helping users focus on what is really important.
