Google’s Gemini lets you chat with your smart home

Here is a 195-word summary of the key points from the news article: Google's new Gemini voice assistant aims to make home automation much more conversational and contextual. Gemini is being integrated into Google's revamped smart home ecosystem, dubbed "Gemini for Home." This includes new hardware like security cameras and a smart speaker, as well as a redesigned Google Home app with faster performance and easier controls. The Gemini assistant promises to better understand voice commands and home context, allowing more natural interactions like "Is the front door locked?" The app will also provide automated "home briefs" summarizing recent activity. Gemini will be able to create smart home automations on the fly using natural language. However, Gemini's advanced features will be limited to Google's paid Home Premium subscription, replacing the previous Nest Aware plan. Basic smart home controls will still be available for free. Google is rolling out Gemini slowly, initially restricting its free-form chat mode to select devices. The article notes Google faces competition from Amazon's Alexa+ and Apple's upcoming Siri-powered smart home efforts. The success of Gemini will depend on its reliability and ability to deliver a truly conversational smart home experience.