A decade ago, when smart speakers with built-in voice assistants were the new thing, many imagined they would quickly become highly intelligent companions. (Think C-3PO or Star Trek data inside a speaker.) That road has been much longer than expected, as virtual assistants like Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant have sat idly by for years.
But now that generative AI is here (for better or worse), smart speakers are finally scratching the surface of those expectations. Google’s new version, Gemini for Home, is now available to try Here’s how.
Early access for Gemini
First, note that Gemini is in early access for home voice assistants This means Google is gathering feedback about its features, and — like all “Early access for Gemini” generative AI — it’s unwise to assume it will make mistakes. If this is the case, you can send feedback to Google in the Google Home app or by saying “Hey Google, send feedback”.
Compatible devices with Gemini for home voice assistants
You’ll also want to check your speaker model before diving in The full Gemini experience for the home is available to try on Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen), Google Nest Audio, Google Nest Mini (2nd Gen) and Google Nest Hub Max. All these models support Gemini Live, which enables conversational chat with the usual follow-up questions.
Early access for Gemini
Other models support everything except Gemini Live. That list includes the Google Nest Wifi Point, Google Nest Hub (1st gen), Google Home Max, Google Home Mini (1st gen) and Google Home.
Another thing is that once you sign in, your Google Assistant’s days are over (on your speaker anyway). That’s because Google says that once you “Early access for Gemini” upgrade to Gemini for Home, your compatible devices can’t downgrade to Assistant. This shouldn’t be a problem, but it’s worth keeping in mind before you take the plunge.
How to sign up for Gemini Early Access
Once you’ve confirmed that your speaker(s) are at least partially compatible, go to the Google Home app on a mobile device. There, tap your profile picture (or initials) at the top right. Then tap Home Settings > Basic Access. Congratulations: You have placed your request.
The bad news is that you may have to wait a bit to confirm your entry into the beta program. Once you’re signed in, you’ll see a notification from “Early access for Gemini” the Google Home app that says, “Gemini for Home.” Select it and follow the prompts. (If you accidentally dismiss the notification, you’ll see the Setup banner under Home Settings in the Google Home app.)
Early access for Gemini
At that point, all compatible speakers in your home will be upgraded to Google’s more intelligent AI Assistant. You can now throw more advanced questions at it, which you’d want to ask a text-based chatbot like ChatGPT. Except it sits on a shelf, ready to field your verbal requests at any moment
Remember that Gemini live is a requirement Google Home Premium Subscription. The standard version costs $10 per month or $100 per year. Meanwhile, the advanced tier doubles: $20 per month or $200 per year At least for now, the only “Early access for Gemini” difference (for this purpose) between the two is that the pricier plan supports the camera history search feature. Both premium tiers unlock access to Gemini Live. So, you can save money and get value if you need it.
Google offers Examples abound For starters, you can get quick answers to information like, “Hey Google, who are the top five scorers in basketball history?” (FYI: James, Abdul-Jabbar, Malone, Bryant and Jordan.) You can also ask Gemini Live to chat about ingredients for people with dietary needs. Or, ask them to explain complex topics (like how Wi-Fi works) in simple terms. It may not be at the C-3PO level yet, but it’s certainly moving in that direction.