Early access to the Gemini Home voice assistant is now available. Here’s how to get it
By Will Shanklin | Published: 2025-10-29 19:12:00 | Source: Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics
A decade ago, when smart speakers with built-in voice assistants were the hot new thing, many imagined they would quickly evolve into highly intelligent companions. (Think of C-3PO or Star Trek data living inside a blaster.) This has been a much longer road than expected, as virtual assistants like Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant have seemed to remain in neutral 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.
First, keep in mind that the Gemini for Home voice assistant is in early access. This means that Google is collecting feedback about its features, and as with all generative AI systems, it is wise to assume that it will make mistakes. If or when this happens, you can send feedback to Google in the Google Home app or by saying “Hey Google, send feedback.”
Gemini home voice assistant compatible devices
You’ll also want to check the model of your speaker before diving in. The full Gemini for Home experience is available to try on Google Nest Hub (2nd generation), Google Nest Audio, Google Nest Mini (2nd generation), and Google Nest Hub Max. All of these models support Gemini Live, which allows for back-and-forth chat with natural follow-up questions.
Other models support everything except Gemini Live. This list includes the Google Nest Wifi Point, Google Nest Hub (1st generation), Google Home Max, Google Home Mini (1st generation), and Google Home.
Another point is that once you dive in, the days of Google Assistant will be over (on speakers, anyway). That’s because Google says that once you upgrade to Gemini for Home, your compatible devices won’t be able to switch back 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 early access to Gemini
Once you’re sure your speakers are at least partially compatible, head to the Google Home app on a mobile device. There, tap your profile picture (or your initials) in the top right. Then press Main Settings > Early Access. Congratulations: you have submitted your application.
The bad news is that you may have to wait a bit to confirm your entry into the beta program. Once you’re in, you’ll see a notification from the Google Home app that says “Introducing Gemini for Home.” Select it, and follow the prompts. (If you accidentally dismiss the notification, you’ll see the setting logo under Home settings in the Google Home app.)
Sherilyn Lu for Engadget
At that point, all compatible speakers in your home will be upgraded to Google’s smarter AI Assistant. You can now ask it more advanced questions, similar to what you would ask a text chat software like ChatGPT. Except this is sitting on a shelf, ready for your verbal requests at a moment’s notice.
Keep in mind that Gemini Live requires… Google Home Premium subscription. The Standard version costs $10 per month or $100 per year. Meanwhile, the advanced tier doubles that: $20 per month or $200 per year. At least for now, the only difference between the two (for these purposes) is that the more expensive plan supports the camera history search feature. Both premium levels unlock access to Gemini Live. So, if that’s all you need, you can save money and get the standard.
Google Offers Lots of examples To start. You can get quick answers to facts, like “Hey Google, who are the top five scoring players in basketball history?” (FYI: James, Abdul-Jabbar, Malone, Bryant, and Jordan.) You can also ask Gemini Live to have a conversation about ingredients for people with dietary needs. Or ask him to explain complex topics (such as how Wi-Fi works) in simple terms. He may not have reached C-3PO’s level yet, but he’s definitely moving in that direction.
(Tags for translation)Google
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