Google Home app gets a major update with enhanced controls and UI improvements
Table of Contents
TL;DR
* Google Home app version 4.3 is now rolling out too Android and iOS users.
* The update introduces enhanced device controls, upgraded “home” and “Away” automations, an edge-to-edge UI for Android, and several quality-of-life improvements.
Google has started rolling out version 4.3 of the Google Home app.The latest update is rolling out gradually to Android devices, while it appears to already be live for iOS users.
Don’t want to miss the best from Android Authority?
Google Home App Update: Enhanced Familiar Face detection, Device Controls, and Custom Automations
The Google Home app has received a significant update bringing improvements to familiar face detection, device controls, automation customization, and overall performance. This update, rolling out now, aims to provide a more reliable, responsive, and personalized smart home experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key changes:
Enhanced Familiar Face Detection
Google is focusing on improving the accuracy and reliability of its familiar face detection feature. This allows the Google Home ecosystem to personalize experiences based on who is present in the home. While specific details of the improvements weren’t outlined, the update indicates a continued investment in this feature for a more seamless and responsive smart home. https://support.google.com/googlehome/answer/9034289?hl=en
Improved Device Controls (Public Preview)
the user interface for controlling smart home devices – including lights,plugs,and switches – has been refreshed. This update prioritizes quicker access to frequently used actions through new shortcuts. A key improvement for Android users is the ability to control compatible Matter devices locally. This means control signals don’t rely on the cloud, resulting in up to 2x faster response times and increased reliability, even without an internet connection. https://9to5google.com/2024/05/16/google-home-app-update-matter-local-control/
Fully Customizable “Home” and “Away” Automations
google has upgraded the “Home” and “Away” automations,migrating them to the new automation editor. This provides users with substantially more control over their smart home routines.You can now define specific conditions, actions, and starters for these automations, tailoring them to your exact needs. Moreover, control over camera and thermostat actions within these automations has been expanded, allowing for presence-aware actions on a per-device basis.This granular control is accessed through the settings page of each individual camera and thermostat.
Android Visual Enhancements
Users with Android 15 (V) or later will experience a more immersive Google Home app interface. The app now supports edge-to-edge display, extending content behind the system bars for a cleaner and more modern look.
Bug Fixes and Performance Improvements
This update also addresses several bugs and performance issues:
* Device Setup crash: A crash affecting some device setup processes has been resolved.
* Casting Crash: A crash impacting casting sessions on Android has been fixed.
* Ask Home Onboarding: An issue causing the Ask Home onboarding prompt to reappear unnecessarily has been corrected.
* Thermostat Photo Display: A bug that resulted in duplicate photo icons during thermostat setup has been fixed.
This update demonstrates Google’s commitment to refining the Google Home experience, focusing on reliability, customization, and a more intuitive user interface.