Google’s Gemini AI Boosts Nest Speakers: Smarter Homes, Sharper Responses
Staff Editor Google Begins Rollout of Gemini-Powered Assistant for Select Nest Speakers
Google has initiated a phased deployment of its new Gemini-powered Google Assistant for a limited group of Nest smart speaker users. This update, first announced in August, aims to enhance the Assistant’s general knowledge responses with advanced AI capabilities.
The upgraded Assistant maintains its traditional functions, such as smart home device management and music playback, while introducing AI-driven improvements. Users will be alerted to AI-powered responses by a distinctive chime.
The Gemini integration enables the Assistant to provide more comprehensive answers to a wider array of questions. Users can now engage in follow-up queries and interrupt responses, although the “Hey Google” wake phrase remains necessary for each interaction. This enhancement is designed to deliver more in-depth information, mirroring its functionality on mobile devices.
The Gemini-enhanced Assistant was initially spotted by 9to5Google on devices earlier this month. Currently, the update is limited to Nest Audio and Nest Mini (2nd gen) speakers, with older Nest models and smart displays not supporting the new features.
Access to these AI-powered capabilities is restricted to participants in Google Home’s Public Preview program. This rollout is part of Google’s broader strategy to integrate AI more deeply into its smart home ecosystem.
As the deployment progresses, more users are expected to gain access to these advanced features, potentially reshaping the landscape of voice-activated home assistants.
