Gemini for Home now runs Google's speakers, and recent updates taught it new tricks. All nine here are free, and #9 tells you if your speaker can get them.
In the Google Home app, tap your profile picture, then Home settings, then Early Access. It's free to request in the US and 19 other countries.
Say "Hey Google, make the living room lights 2700 kelvins" for a warm glow. Setting an exact color temperature used to be possible only in the app.
Say "OK Google, broadcast message," pause for Gemini to reply, then speak your message. It plays on the other speakers in your home.
The August 20 update sharpened song, artist and playlist recognition. Try "Hey Google, play my Liked songs on Spotify."
Forgot a song's name? Say "Play that song that goes..." and add the lyrics you remember, or describe the movie scene it played in.
Cooking two things? Say "Set a 20-minute timer called Rice" so you know which alarm is ringing, then ask what you can cook with what's in the fridge.
Gemini works out dates for you: "Remind me to make a brunch reservation one month before Mother's Day." Calendar events work by voice too.
Try "My dishwasher isn't draining. What might be wrong?" Continued conversation lets you ask a follow-up without repeating "Hey Google."
Supported: Nest Mini (2nd gen), Home Mini (1st gen), Nest Audio, Nest Hub (both gens), Nest Hub Max and the 2026 Google Home Speaker. A personal Gmail is needed.
Every trick above costs nothing. Only Gemini Live chats ("Hey Google, let's chat") and camera AI need Google Home Premium, from $10 a month.