Google has announced an update to its smart home voice assistant, Gemini for Home. The key feature of this update is the Live Search function, which answers questions based on real-time footage from Nest cameras. Users will be able to check what the cameras are viewing by asking about the situation inside and outside their homes. For example, if a user asks a question verbally—such as whether there is a car in the garage or if a package has arrived—Gemini interprets the current screen to provide an answer.
Live Search is available to Google Home Premium Advanced subscribers. It has been announced as a feature included in the $20 per month or $200 per year plan. Google has explained that Gemini for Home will be rolled out sequentially in the U.S. in October and November 2025, followed by a global expansion in early 2026. However, there has been criticism regarding the backlash as some previously free features have been bundled into a paid subscription. This update is interpreted as a move emphasizing quality improvements along with feature expansion.
Anish Katukarah, Head of Products for Google Home and Nest, announced improvements to voice command accuracy. He stated that conversations were significantly reduced and adjustments were made to support natural turn-taking during real-time conversations. He explained that the system better distinguishes context even when multiple devices are present in the same space, mitigating the issue of confusing lights with other devices. For instance, it recognizes a device as a light source by utilizing manufacturer information, even if the word "light" is not present in the device's name.
Improvements to address-based location accuracy are also included. This means that weather and location information responses will be provided more precisely based on the home address set in the Google Home app. For users who manage multiple locations with a single account, targeting commands is improved. For example, when you say to turn off the lights, the behavior has been adjusted to control only the devices in your current location.
Hardware integration updates are also being released in parallel. The Yale Smart Lock integration feature is transitioning from beta to official availability, and security management features such as passcodes and guest access are more broadly supported within the Google Home app. An update is also anticipated for the Nest Wi-Fi Pro to enhance mesh performance, stability, and security. Google emphasized that this bundle of updates represents a step toward reducing inconveniences in the smart home platform and refining the Gemini-based experience to suit everyday life.
