Google is extending the reach of its Gemini-powered smart home experience with a new update that brings Gemini Live to some of its oldest Google Home devices. Alongside the expansion, the company has introduced several improvements to the Google Home app and Nest cameras, aiming to deliver a smoother and more capable smart home experience for subscribers.
Gemini Live arrives on first-generation Google Home devices
Google has announced that, as part of the 23 July 2026 Gemini for Home update, Gemini Live is now available on the original Google Home Mini and first-generation Nest Hub. Previously, the AI-powered conversational assistant was limited to newer smart speakers and displays, including the Nest Mini, Nest Hub Max and Nest Audio, after launching on compatible devices in October 2025.
The move gives older hardware a new lease of life, although access is restricted to users with a Google Home Premium subscription.
Eligible users can activate the feature by saying:
“Hey Google, let’s chat.”
The update means owners of some of Google’s earliest smart home products can now access the company’s latest AI assistant without needing to upgrade their devices, provided they subscribe to the premium service.
Improved conversational memory makes Gemini more useful
Context is retained for up to 15 minutes
One of the most significant improvements introduced with this update is the addition of short-term conversational memory for Gemini on smart home devices.
Until now, Gemini Live on Google Home hardware lacked the contextual awareness already available on Android phones and desktop platforms, meaning follow-up questions often required users to repeat previous instructions.
Google has now introduced a 15-minute conversational window, allowing Gemini to remember the context of an ongoing discussion.
For example, if a user asks Gemini to increase the bedroom temperature by two degrees, they can return several minutes later and simply ask for another one-degree increase without repeating the original request.
The enhancement is designed to make conversations feel more natural and reduce the need to start interactions from scratch.
Google Home app receives several usability improvements
Google is also introducing a series of refinements to the Google Home app aimed at improving everyday smart home management.
Clearer automation setup
When users attempt to save an automation without adding any activation trigger, the app will now display a clear warning, helping to prevent incomplete routines from being created.
Better controls for blinds and window coverings
Controls and labels for smart blinds and other automated window coverings have been updated, making it easier to position them accurately.
Improved reminders for smart lock security
For households using compatible smart locks, Google Home will now remind users that passcodes must be manually changed or removed whenever someone leaves a home or is removed as a member. The change is intended to reduce the risk of outdated access codes remaining active.
Performance and reliability updates
The latest release also includes a number of stability improvements across the Google Home ecosystem.
Among the key updates are:
- Lower video playback error rates and improved near real-time streaming performance on the iOS Google Home app.
- A fix for an issue that prevented live video feeds from resuming correctly after a phone was unlocked.
- Improved deep-link navigation, ensuring device setup and settings links open the correct page directly.
- A correction for a bug that incorrectly reported fully charged camera batteries as having no remaining battery life.
Nest Cameras receive connectivity enhancements
Google has also updated its Nest Camera platform with improvements focused on reliability.
According to the company, users should experience more dependable device connections, a quicker and smoother setup process, and more accurate activity zone detection for motion alerts.
These refinements are intended to improve day-to-day performance without requiring new hardware.
Additional third-party camera support
Google has also expanded its Gemini built-in programme by adding support for two Walmart-owned onn smart security products:
- onn Outdoor Camera
- onn Floodlight Camera Hardwired
The addition broadens the range of compatible smart home devices capable of working with Google’s AI-powered ecosystem.
Conclusion
The latest Gemini for Home update represents one of Google’s most significant smart home upgrades in recent months. By bringing Gemini Live to first-generation Google Home devices, introducing contextual conversations, and refining the Google Home app and Nest Camera experience, the company is continuing to expand the capabilities of its AI-powered smart home platform while extending support for older hardware for Premium subscribers.
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