Google Home Spring 2025 Update: Smarter Android Controls, Gemini Integration & More [Ultimate Guide]
Google Home's Spring 2025 update transforms smart home management with device-specific Favorites, AI-powered automations, and expanded Matter device support. Android users gain streamlined controls, including 10-second camera seek gestures, presence-sensing routines, and Nest Protect integration for safety alerts. This release focuses on personalization, with Gemini-powered broadcasts and cross-device customization (watch, tablet, TV) rolling out in Public Preview. Here's how to leverage every feature.
🔥 5 Game-Changing Features in Google Home's Spring 2025 Update
1. Smart Favorites: Customized for Every Device
Tailor your Google Home dashboard based on the device you're using:
- Watch: Quick lights/locks control
- Tablet: Room-specific temps, Wi-Fi toggles
- TV: Picture-in-picture Nest Cam feeds
New Additions to Favorites
| Tile Type | Functionality | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor Temp Dashboard | Real-time room temps | Live Now |
| Whole-Home Lights | Toggle all lights instantly | Live Now |
| Wi-Fi Actions | Share passwords, restart network | Coming July 2025 |
2. Smarter Automations with Presence Sensing
Google's new Home/Away Routines eliminate the need for physical sensors:
- Triggers: Music playback, TV usage, or smart speaker activity
- Actions: Auto-lock doors, adjust thermostats, disarm alarms
Automation Editor Upgrades (Android US Public Preview):
- Fewer setup steps
- Gemini suggestions for routines (e.g., "Lower blinds at sunset")
- Matter lock support (edit passcodes, guest access)
3. Nest Cam & Security Upgrades
- 10-Seek Jump: Double-tap left/right to skip footage
- Google TV PiP: Monitor cameras while streaming
- Nest Protect Integration: Safety checkups, CO alarm silencing
Performance Boost: 30% faster video history scrubbing.
4. Matter Smart Lock & Device Expansion
Third-party locks (e.g., Aqara U300) now support:
- ✅ Guest profiles
- ✅ Battery status alerts
- ✅ One-touch locking
Future Support: Robotic vacuums and EV chargers (expected Fall 2025).
5. Cross-Platform Control
- Web App: Adjust lights, temps, locks via browser
- Wear OS: Transit payments + home controls
- Home Summary Widget: Glanceable device status (Labs invite-only)
📊 Google Home Spring 2025 vs. Competitors
| Feature | Google Home | Amazon Alexa | Apple HomeKit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Device-Specific Favorites | ✅ | ❌ | Limited |
| AI-Powered Automations | Gemini | Alexa Hunches | Siri Shortcuts |
| Matter Lock Support | 12+ brands | 8 brands | 5 brands |
❓ FAQ (Accordion Style)
How do I join the Public Preview?
Go to Google Home App → Settings → Public Preview → Join. US Android users get early access to automations, PiP, and web controls.
Will Nest Learning Thermostats (1st/2nd gen) work?
No. Support ends October 25, 2025. Migrate to Nest Thermostat (2024) for full integration.
Is Gemini replacing Google Assistant?
Not yet. Gemini handles broadcasts and automation suggestions, but Assistant remains default for voice commands.
🚀 How to Optimize Your Setup
- Prioritize Favorites: Pin temp dashboards for heatwaves.
- Use Presence Sensing: Trigger "Movie Mode" when TV activates.
- Enable PiP: Monitor deliveries during Netflix binges.
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