In a bold move to revive its struggling smart home project, Google announced the integration of its latest Gemini technology into the Google Home ecosystem. This step aims to fix the technical chaos that has plagued its platforms in recent years and rebuild trust with users disappointed by the performance of its previous smart assistant, according to androidauthority.

Promises Unfulfilled

When smart speakers first appeared years ago, the promises were grand: full home control using only voice commands, without the need for phones or computers. But reality was different. Instead of simplifying daily life, Google Home devices suffered a noticeable decline in efficiency and reliability, leading many to abandon the system despite their significant investments.

Gemini Enters to Restore Trust

Google’s answer came this week with “Gemini for Home,” a comprehensive update relying on generative AI to provide smart home devices with a more natural and intelligent conversational experience.

The update includes speakers, smart displays, doorbells, and cameras, adding improvements in media control, alerts, and smart voice search, making the experience closer to the original vision of smart homes.

However, the task won’t be easy. After years of repeated malfunctions and misunderstood voice commands, users find it hard to believe this time will be different.

From Admitting Mistakes to Building the Future

In an interview with a US tech site, Anis Katukaran, Senior Product Manager for Google Home and Nest, admitted the company learned from its past mistakes and confirmed his team seriously engaged with user complaints on forums and social media.

He explained that Google faced two choices: continue “patching” the old smart assistant system or rebuild it entirely based on Gemini. The company chose the harder path — but one it sees as more sustainable — to deliver a truly smart experience, not just rigid voice commands.

An Update Covering a Decade of Devices

One of the biggest surprises of the new update is that Google did not abandon its old devices. It rewrote millions of lines of code to ensure Gemini for Home will work on all devices launched over the past ten years — from speakers to smart cameras.

However, Katukaran acknowledged that some very old Nest devices, especially thermostats, will not receive the update due to their reliance on unsupported software architecture.

A Smarter, Smoother Experience

Gemini will not only improve conversational intelligence but also revolutionize overall system performance. Daily tasks like setting timers, playing music, or controlling lighting will be executed more naturally and quickly. Google also promised to enhance the Google Home app’s stability and speed in loading cameras and connected devices.