Google Home Gets Smarter with New AI Features

Google Home is rolling out some exciting new updates, including a powerful AI-driven feature called “Live Search.” Anish Katturkaran, head of the Google Home division, shared the news on X. Many of these improvements come from “Gemini for Home,” which replaced Google Assistant on smart devices in October 2025.

Katturkaran explained that Google launched Gemini for Home in early access to learn from how people actually use it. He noted, “Millions of you now test and shape this experience every day, and we’re pushing regular voice improvements to address your feedback.” This means Google is listening to users and making changes based on their suggestions.

The new “Live Search” feature lets you ask Gemini about what’s happening in your home right now, using information from your cameras. For example, you can ask, “Hey Google, is there a car in the driveway?” However, only Google Home Premium advanced subscribers can use this feature. It costs $20 a month or $200 a year.

Gemini for Home also uses updated AI models to give better and more accurate answers. It will now reliably play new songs when you ask. Other important updates include better control of smart home devices by room or house, fewer times when the speaker cuts off too early, and more reliable voice commands for your automated tasks. You can find all the details in Google Home’s latest changelog.

Finally, Google Home announced improved support for the Nest x Yale lock. This includes full passcode management, even for guests, a more detailed history of when the lock was used, real-time alerts for lock events, and better lock settings like single-touch locking. These updates make managing your smart lock much easier and more secure.