Just a day after Amazon launched its latest Echo devices, Google reveals its Gemini-powered smart home lineup and AI strategy, signaling a major shift in how the company plans to blend hardware and AI. The tech giant unveiled a refreshed range of Google Home and Nest devices, alongside a revamped software platform designed to showcase Gemini AI.
Image Credits:Omar Marques/SOPA Images/LightRocket / Getty Images
This rollout isn’t just about shiny new gadgets. Google also made it clear that it wants Gemini to be accessible beyond its own hardware—similar to how it handles Android with Pixel phones and third-party devices. The idea is to set standards, provide tools, and let other manufacturers tap into Gemini’s potential.
Flagship Hardware With A Bigger AI Vision
Anish Kattukaran, Google’s Chief Product Officer for Home and Nest, explained the approach: Google will continue to build flagship devices to push innovation but won’t restrict Gemini to just those products. Instead, the company wants to democratize access across price points and device makers.
This echoes Google’s broader AI strategy: create best-in-class devices while letting partners bring Gemini to the masses. It’s a move that could quickly expand the ecosystem and make Gemini the default assistant across millions of homes.
New Nest Devices Showcasing Gemini
At the event, Google unveiled a revamped lineup of Nest products:
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Nest Cam Outdoor
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Nest Cam Indoor
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Nest Doorbell
All are infused with Gemini AI capabilities. Google also teased a next-gen Google Home speaker, expected in spring 2026, alongside affordable security products built with Walmart under its onn brand.
Crucially, existing device owners won’t be left behind. As long as their hardware meets processing requirements, Gemini features will roll out to them first. With over 800 million devices already in the ecosystem, this approach could make Gemini the fastest-scaling smart home AI.
Why Compatibility Matters
Google’s reliance on Google Home Cloud-to-Cloud APIs and the Matter standard allows seamless integration between first-party and third-party devices. This means you won’t need to throw away your current smart home gadgets to experience Gemini.
The phased rollout also gives Google valuable feedback from real-world usage before deploying Gemini more widely. Early adopters get a head start, while future flagship hardware—like the upgraded Google Home speaker—will come optimized for AI from day one.
Partner Strategy: Walmart Leads The Way
In addition to hardware, Google is building a toolkit for its “Works with Google Home” partners. This includes:
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AI-powered camera SDKs
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Reference hardware designs
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Recommendations for smart home SoCs
Walmart is the first major partner, bringing budget-friendly Gemini-enabled devices to market. Its onn indoor camera and doorbell are positioned to make AI security accessible to more households.
The Bigger Picture: Google’s AI Play
By revealing its Gemini-powered smart home lineup and AI strategy, Google is making a statement: the future of smart homes is AI-first. With Gemini baked into its ecosystem, the company is betting on more intuitive, adaptive, and connected living spaces—whether through Nest devices, third-party cameras, or upcoming flagship speakers.
This isn’t just a hardware refresh; it’s Google laying the foundation for the next decade of AI-driven homes.
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