Google Simplifies Automation of Smart Homes

Google has made a significant effort to prioritize automation following the release of its revamped Home app in May. This has included the addition of a script editor, integration with Nest Cam Indoor, and now, an extensive range of new routines. Google has recently unveiled 18 fresh routines, with an equal distribution of starters and actions, which are now accessible to Google Home users.

Starters allow you to activate or deactivate something in response to another device. For example, you can now set the thermostat to automatically turn off when the window is open, or dim the lights and turn on the fireplace if you pause the show. Actions, on the other hand, typically occur in response to you or another person. New functions include, for example, turning on the lights slowly after closing the alarm and turning on the lights in the room or turning off the vacuum cleaner if the doorbell rings. You can check out the full list of new routines on Google’s Nest Community blog here.

You can access new and old routines in the Google Home app under the Programs icon. From there, you can choose what type of routine it is – household or personal – and name it. Then when you want to use it, all you have to do is ask Google to turn it on, just like you would tell your Google device to do anything.

Google has also added the first round of new features to the public preview of the script editor, including using cameras to start. These settings can be, for example, playing soothing music when the dog comes into view, or turning on the lights when a family member comes home. However, you can also block appetizers if they are not useful for the time being. In addition, you can enable custom notifications, such as a text that tells you when certain family members have made the home safe or that a device has been left on.