Google has been doubling down on home automation ever since the re-launch of its revamped Home app this past May. We’ve seen the debut of an innovative script editor, integration with Nest Cam Indoor, and now—hold onto your smart coffee mugs—a deluge of fresh routines. Google has dropped the mic with a lineup of 18 new routines, evenly split between ‘Starters’ and ‘Actions’, and they are instantly up for grabs for Google Home enthusiasts.
So what’s the deal with Starters? Well, they’re essentially commands that kick in as a reaction to another device’s activity. Picture this: your window swings open and—poof!—your thermostat knows to switch off. Or perhaps you decide to pause your binge-watching session, and your room’s lights dim while the fireplace spontaneously comes to life. It’s like having a personal assistant, but without the awkward small talk.
On the flip side, Actions are more people-oriented, focusing on responding to human triggers. Fresh out of the Google oven are options like your lights gradually brightening as you brush off your alarm, or your room’s lights pulsating when your favorite jam comes on. Even better? If someone rings your doorbell, Google has your back by shutting off your noisy vacuum. All these new routines are available for your scrolling pleasure on Google’s Nest Community blog.
But how do you get in on this Jetsons-esque future? Just tap your way into the Google Home app, where you’ll find the Routines icon. From there, categorize your new routine as either ‘household’ or ‘personal’, give it a snappy name, and you’re all set. When the mood strikes to activate it, just shout out to Google as if you were asking it to solve all your life’s problems.
As if that weren’t enough, Google has also sprinkled some new goodies into its public preview of the script editor. Now you can use cameras as starters for more automated awesomeness. Imagine your speakers playing soothing tunes the moment your dog saunters into view, or the lights flicking on when a family member walks through the door. But let’s say you’re not in the mood for all this automation; Google’s got you covered. You can temporarily disable these starters without breaking a sweat. And if you’ve got a penchant for custom alerts, you’re in luck: you can set up text notifications to know when family members are safely back home or if you’ve carelessly left an appliance running.
So there you have it—Google’s making it simpler than ever to live your best automated life. Say goodbye to the Stone Age and hello to the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Google Home Automation
What is Google’s latest update in home automation?
Google has recently enhanced its home automation capabilities by introducing 18 new routines and expanding the features in its script editor. These updates are available through the Google Home app.
What are ‘Starters’ and ‘Actions’ in Google Home’s new routines?
‘Starters’ are commands that activate or deactivate a device or feature in response to another device’s actions. ‘Actions’ are commands that happen in response to human behavior. For instance, a ‘Starter’ could turn off your thermostat if a window is open, while an ‘Action’ could dim the lights when you pause your TV show.
How do I access these new routines?
You can access these new and existing routines via the Google Home app. Navigate to the ‘Routines’ icon and from there, you can categorize your new routine as either ‘household’ or ‘personal’, name it, and then activate it by asking Google.
What’s new in the script editor public preview?
The script editor now allows for camera integration as a starter. This means you can automate actions such as playing calming music when your dog walks into the room or turning on lights when a family member arrives home.
Can I disable these automation features?
Yes, Google allows you to suppress starters if you find them inconvenient at a particular time. This can be done within the script editor settings.
Are there custom notification options?
Yes, you can set up custom text notifications to alert you about certain events, such as family members arriving home safely or if an appliance has been left on.
Where can I find more information on these new features?
For a complete list of the new routines and features, you can visit Google’s Nest Community blog. It provides detailed information on all the updates in the home automation sector.
More about Google Home Automation
- Google’s Official Nest Community Blog
- Google Home App Download
- Intro to Google Home Automation
- Overview of Smart Routines
- Explaining Starters and Actions
- Script Editor Public Preview Guide
8 comments
Love the text alerts for when fam gets home. Peace of mind in an app. Now thats what I call tech!
Finally i can control my house without movin’ a muscle. Now if Google could just fetch me a beer from the fridge, life’d be perfect lol.
Not sure if all these automations are good for us. What happens if something goes wrong and the house turns into a disco? Trust issues here.
Cool but when’s the next update? I wanna see Google Home make me coffee and choose my Netflix shows. One can dream right.
Script editor with camera integration is a game changer. Imagine the hacks and mods people will come up with. Its like giving Tony Stark a new toolset!
Starters and Actions are cool and all, but can they fold my laundry? Call me when that update drops haha.
Woah, 18 new routines? Google’s really stepping up their game! Actions and Starters sounds like something outta sci-fi, but it’s real!
Wow, custom notifications? This is the future people! No more yelling across the house to see if the kids are home!