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Google Home for web rolls out smart device controls

After rolling out over the past few weeks, device controls are now widely rolled out to the Google Home web app.

This ability to control smart devices — joining the mobile app, displays/speakers, and voice — from Home’s web app was first teased by Google in June.

You will see a new “Devices” tab in-between Cameras and Automations, with the website previously just for video history and the script editor. There is one scrollable feed with all your devices laid out in a grid. The left sidebar quickly scrolls you to a specific Room (in alphabetical order).

These Tiles work like on mobile with a tap turning a device on/off. You can adjust the brightness of lights by sliding/dragging, but there’s no color picker. Nest Thermostats have the plus/minus for temperature control, while an overflow menu lets you select: Heat, Cool, Heat ᐧ Cool, and Off. Cameras get a preview, while plugs are a simple on/off. Smart locks and blinds are also available.

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Speakers, displays, Chromecasts, and other media devices might appear in the grid, but they can’t be controlled. 

“Controls for this device are not yet supported” will appear when there are no actions. Google says it’s “continuing to invest in expanding controls for more device types and will share more information when they’re available.” To leave feedback: 

  1. Click the ⋮ icon in the upper right corner
  2. Click Send feedback
  3. Describe the issue you’re facing or share your ideas in the text box
  4. Optionally, add a screenshot by clicking the Capture screenshot button along with any annotations
  5. Finally, click Send to submit your feedback

Overall, Google notes the feedback it’s received “about wanting to be able to do more with your smart home in your browser.”

Go to home.google.com to get started.

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Avatar for Abner Li Abner Li

Editor-in-chief. Interested in the minutiae of Google and Alphabet. Tips/talk: abner@9to5g.com