Google Unveils New Assistant Voices and Gemini-Powered Enhancements for Google Home
Google Introduces New Google TV Streamer and Gemini-Enhanced Features for Google Home
Google Unveils New Assistant Voices and Gemini-Powered Enhancements for Google Home Today, Google unveiled the successor to the Chromecast with Google TV, now named the Google TV Streamer. Alongside this announcement, Google revealed significant updates coming to Google Home, powered by its new Gemini technology.
Google TV Streamer:
The Google TV Streamer is designed to offer improved performance and functionality over its predecessor. It features a faster chipset, increased RAM, and expanded storage. It also integrates a gigabit Ethernet port, eliminating the need for an external adapter, and includes a USB-C port for power and optional data transfer. The device supports HDMI 2.1 for 4K HDR at 60fps, with compatibility for HDR10(+), Dolby Vision, and HLG.
Gemini Enhancements for Google Home:
Google Home is set to receive significant upgrades through Gemini, Google’s advanced AI technology. Gemini will enhance the Nest camera functionality by providing more detailed understanding of what the cameras see. Over time, the system will evolve from recognizing basic elements like motion and people to offering more comprehensive descriptions, such as identifying specific activities like “the dog is digging in the garden.” This improved understanding will make camera clips in the Google Home app more informative and useful.
A new camera activity search feature will allow users to find specific events in their camera history more easily. For example, you can search for instances like “did the kids leave their bikes in the driveway?” and receive a summary of relevant events. Google promises this will transform how users interact with their Nest cameras, making it easier to get pertinent information from home security footage.
Gemini will also simplify the creation of smart home automations. A new “Help me create” feature in the Google Home app will let users describe their desired automation in plain language. For instance, you can say “lock the doors and turn off all the lights at bedtime,” and Gemini will automatically set up the corresponding automation. Additionally, Gemini will suggest possible actions based on the capabilities of your connected devices, even if you don’t have a specific automation in mind.
Later this year, Google will roll out an enhanced version of Google Assistant for Nest speakers and displays. This update will introduce new, more natural-sounding voices and improve the Assistant’s ability to understand and interact with users. The new Assistant, leveraging Gemini’s generative capabilities, will offer more fluid and conversational interactions, making it easier to ask follow-up questions and engage in natural dialogue.
These new features will first be available to a limited group of Nest Aware subscribers participating in the Public Preview. Wider availability will follow, but for now, most users will need to wait for these updates.
