In the future, we might look back on 2017 as the year smart assistants came of age. The technology has been simmering in the background for a while, but recently we've seen an explosion in the number of supported devices. New Google Home Devices:Everything You Need to Know New Google Home Devices:Everything You Need to Know Google has big plans for its smart home products. Here's what we know so far about the Google Home Mini, Google Home Max, and Google Clips. Read more.
Leading the charge is Google Home. Powered by Google Assistant, it's a multi-purpose assistant that can do everything. How to set up and use your Google home page How to set up and use your Google home page Did you just buy a new Google home page? Here's a step-by-step guide to everything you need to know to get it set up and working perfectly. Read more about how to turn off the lights to play videos on your TV.
But if you really want to get the most out of Google Home, which devices should you buy? Want a new Google Home device? 7 questions to ask before you buy Want a new Google Home device? 7 questions to ask before you buy The new Google Home smart speakers, Nest Hello doorbell, and Google Clips camera are getting a lot of attention. But before you make a purchase, ask yourself these questions! Read more ? What purchases will allow you to exploit the technology to its fullest potential?
Continue reading to find out. We'll introduce you to some smart home gadgets that will maximize your Google Home experience.
We start the list with another Google device, the Chromecast. Chromecasts come in two varieties:There's a video version. 10 Must-Have Chromecast Apps for Watching TV 10 Must-Have Chromecast Apps for Watching TV The Chromecast is arguably the best device currently on the market for anyone looking to cut the cord. And you'll definitely need these 10 apps to get started. Read More 10 Must-Have Chromecast Apps for Listening to Music. 10 Essential Chromecast Apps for Listening to Music. Chromecasts are about more than just video content; They can also stream music. In this article, we've listed 10 must-have Chromecast apps to help you get started listening to music. Read More
At around $30 each, the devices are the cheapest and easiest way to give your media team smart capabilities without splashing out on new equipment.
Since Chromecasts are a Google product, it shouldn't surprise you to learn that they integrate exceptionally well with Google Home. Using commands like “Play Orange is the new black on Netflix” or “Play Rod Stewart using Spotify on the bedroom speakers.,” You can control all the media output in your home without touching a remote or smartphone.
Note: Before you buy a Chromecast, make sure it's no longer part of your existing devices. Some smart TVs and Android TV devices come with the technology built in.
Philips Hue is the world's most popular smart lighting brand with seamless integration with Google Home.
Philips Hue White A19 4-Pack 60W Equivalent Dimmable LED Smart Light Bulb (4 A19 60W White Bulbs Compatible with Amazon Alexa Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant) Philips Hue White A19 4-Pack 60W Equivalent Dimmable LED Smart Light Bulb (4 A19 60W White Bulbs compatible with Amazon Alexa Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant) Buy now on Amazon $ 39.99
The drawback is the cost. Philips Hue is expensive 5 reasons why Philips Hue bulbs are too expensive and pointless 5 reasons why Philips Hue bulbs are too expensive and pointless Are you thinking of buying a Philips Hue smart lighting system to save money and create cool lighting effects? Read this article first, because Philips Hue realities don't always live up to the hype. Read more . And if you want to connect the bulbs to your Google Home ecosystem, you'll also need to pay for a bridge unit.
If Philips Hue lights are out of your price range, don't worry. Some Cheaper Alternatives Philips Hue Smart Bulb Alternatives to Save Money Philips Hue Smart Bulb Alternatives to Save Money In this article, you'll learn about some of the less expensive alternatives to Philips Hue and see how they compare. Read More If you're a programmer, you could even hack a Raspberry Pi to allow you to use Google Home to control systems like LimitlessLED, EasyBulb, and MiLight.
Or for something more creative, why not check out the Nanoleaf Aurora system? It uses modular wall panels that you can lay out in any pattern you like.
Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared All-in-One Remote, Logitech Universal Remote, Programmable Remote (Silver) Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared All-in-One Remote, Logitech Universal Remote, Programmable Remote (Silver) Buy Now On Amazon $32.99
Anyone serious about the 10 Questions to Ask Before Canceling Cable 10 Questions to Ask Before Canceling Cable You're probably considering canceling your cable right now. And you are certainly not alone. However, there are some questions to ask yourself before you cancel the cable. Read More
This device can control everything from your streaming box to your DVD player, and supports a staggering 270,000 individual devices.
If you combine Logitech Harmony with Google Home, you can use it to control all your devices by voice. Even better, you can create custom commands. For example, you could say “OK Google, ask Harmony to play a movie” and it will turn on your TV, close the blinds, switch your TV to the appropriate audio and visual settings, and open Netflix.
Note: At this time, Logitech Harmony remotes can only be paired with Google Home in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
Several smart thermostats work with Google Home, most notably the Nest Learning Thermostat. Its functionality is not surprising given that Google owns the manufacturer, Nest Labs.
Nest Learning Thermostat (T3007ES), Easy Temperature Control for Every Room in Your Home, Stainless Steel (3rd Generation), Works with Nest Learning Thermostat by Nest (T3007ES), Easy Temperature Control for Every Room in Your Home , stainless steel (3rd generation) , Works with Alexa Buy Now On Amazon $180.50
Nest attracts users due to its learning capabilities. After a week of “training,” the device will know exactly what temperature it likes at what time of day.
If you pair the device with Google Home, you'll be able to issue commands like "OK Google, set the temperature to 68 degrees" or "OK Google, turn the temperature up 4 degrees." You can only issue 20 commands every hour to save the thermostat battery.
Other smart thermostats looking to buy a smart thermostat? 5 nest alternatives looking to buy a smart thermostat? 5 Nest Alternatives When it comes to controlling the temperature in your home, the Nest Smart Thermostat is king, but there are plenty of options out there. Here are 5 to consider if you're looking to buy. Read More
If you want a way to incorporate smart capabilities into various parts of your home without spending a fortune on new lights, fancy smart speakers, and a new smart TV, what is a smart TV? 6 of the best on the market today What is a Smart TV? 6 of the best on the market today Most of the TVs you look at right now are smart TVs, but what is a smart TV and which ones are the best on the market right now? Read More 18 ways smart plugs will make your life easier and safer. 18 ways smart plugs will make your life easier and safer. Smart plugs are a small investment that can make a big difference in your daily life. . Take a look at these easy and effective ways to use them in your home today! Read more.
There are many options on the market, but not all of them work with Google Home.
One system that works is Belkin Wemo. The Mini Smart Plug, Insight Smart Plug, and Light Switch are all supported.
Wemo Insight Smart Plug with energy monitoring, WiFi enabled, control your devices and manage energy costs from anywhere, works with Alexa and the Google Assistant Wemo Insight Smart Plug with energy monitoring, WiFi enabled, control your devices and manage energy costs from anywhere, works with Alexa and the Google Assistant Buy Now On Amazon $32.98
If you install the plugs in enough appliances, you'll be able to run everything from your coffee machine to your fan with the sound of your voice.
Other smart plugs 6 non-Belkin WeMo smart plugs 6 non-Belkin WeMo smart plugs that are compatible with Google Home Read More include the TP-Link Wi-Fi Smart Plug and the Insignia Wi-Fi Smart Plug.
If you own a Robotic Cleaner Why you should clean your home with a Robotic Vacuum Why you should clean your home with a Robotic Vacuum The benefits of a robotic vacuum cleaner plus smart home functionality make Neato Botvac Connect the ideal choice to keep your home Clean without you having to lift a finger! Read More You won't even have to bend down to find the device's power switch.
Of course, we've all heard of Roombas, but the famous devices are far from the only product available. You can also check out the Neato Botvac Connected. Both devices work with Google Home.
iRobot Roomba 650 Robot Vacuum Cleaner iRobot Roomba 650 Robot Vacuum Cleaner Buy Now On Amazon $699.00
Commands include “Hey Google, ask Neato Robot to clean my house.” and “Hey Google, ask Roomba Robot to clean my living room..” We're still waiting “Hey Google, tell Roomba it got a little lost” be supported.
These days, no one should have to manually open a garage door. It's so 20th century.
Ok, we're kidding. Not many people have smart garage door openers. However, of those who do, we bet not many will go back to the old manual method; there are too many benefits 4 ways a smart garage door opener will simplify your life 4 ways a smart garage door opener will simplify your life Garages are Great, Garage Doors are Frustrating. Smart garage door openers can help. Read more.
If you're looking for a new smart garage door opener, why not check out the Chamberlain MyQ? Unsurprisingly, you can use your voice to open and close the door, but Google Home also offers a security feature:It can ask you if your garage door is open, even when you're away from home.
We've introduced you to a few different devices that work with Google Home. And remember, even if your favorite smart gadget isn't supported yet, there's a good chance you can get it working using an IFTTT recipe.
What are your favorite devices compatible with Google Home? How do you incorporate them into your smart home setup? As always, you can leave all your tips, opinions, and suggestions in the comments below. And remember to share this article with other smart home lovers on social media.