How Gemini Saved Google's Smart Home: A Nest Device Owner's Experience

A Google Nest-based smart home owner shared their experience switching from Google Assistant to Gemini. After years of frustration with the assistant—unstable command execution, lost features without warning, and the need to use web searches for simple questions—the user was ready to abandon the ecosystem. However, upgrading to Gemini restored functionality even to older devices like the 2018 Nest Hub and 2019 Nest Hub Max.

Gemini significantly outperforms its predecessor in key scenarios: multi-step commands (e.g., setting multiple alarms), thermostat and camera control, and natural language responses. For example, users can now request a live feed from a doorbell or get a recipe without being redirected to a search page. The assistant also maintains conversation context, allowing users to refine details, such as substituting ingredients in recipes.

Despite improvements, Gemini has its drawbacks. Some queries, like detailed sports results or weather data, remain unanswered due to artificial restrictions. The assistant also blocks alcohol-related recipes, which can be inconvenient. Additionally, reliance on cloud computing slows performance, and responses may vary from overly brief to excessively detailed. Nevertheless, for owners of older Nest devices, Gemini has been a lifesaver, extending their lifespan.