Easy guide to using Google Home with Gemini

Google has just made its Google Home Gemini Extension available for everyone, moving it out of the testing phase. Here’s how you can get it working on your phone:
How to Turn It On:
- Open the Gemini app on your Android or iOS device.
- Tap on your profile picture in the top-right corner.
- Go to “Extensions” and find “Device Control.”
- You’ll see @Google The home listed there without the preview tag. Just toggle it on and agree to connect it.
What’s New?
This extension has been in the works for a while, and now it’s ready for everyone. You can control your lights and other devices right from your phone’s lock screen without unlocking it. For anything sensitive, you’ll be sent to the Google Home app. Plus, you can now adjust the volume, pause or resume media on your devices, and the thermostat controls look just like they do in the Home app.
What Can You Do?
With this update, you can give commands like:
- “Turn on all the living room lights but keep the armchair light off.”
- “Actually, turn on the armchair light too, but make the kitchen lamp less bright.”
- “Is the porch light still on?”
Here are some examples of what you can control:
Lights:
- Turn on or off specific lights or all lights in a room.
- Adjust the brightness or color of lights.
Switches and Outlets:
- Turn on or off any switch or outlet.
Thermostats:
- Change heating or cooling modes.
- Set or adjust the temperature.
Fans, Heaters, and AC Units:
- Turn devices on or off, adjust fan speeds, or change temperatures.
Window Coverings:
- Open or close curtains, blinds, or shutters.
Media Devices:
- Control volume, pause or resume playback on TVs or speakers.
Other Smart Devices:
- Start or stop devices like vacuums, washers, or coffee makers.
This extension makes managing your smart home simpler and more natural with voice or text commands. Enjoy the convenience of controlling your home environment effortlessly.
Google Pixel Watch 4: First look at its design

Google’s upcoming Pixel Watch 4 is creating buzz with its sleek and modern design, revealed through recent leaks. The smartwatch keeps the signature circular shape that fans love, but it brings some fresh updates that make it stand out.
The Pixel Watch 4 has a smooth, rounded body with a shiny finish, giving it a stylish and polished look. Its digital crown, a key feature for easy navigation, is slightly larger this time, making it simpler to use. The watch also seems to have a thinner frame, which could mean a bigger screen for viewing notifications, apps, or fitness stats.
Leaked images show the watch in multiple colors, including a classic black, a soft silver, and a bold new shade that might catch attention. The straps look comfy and interchangeable, so users can switch up their style easily. Whether you’re dressing up or keeping it casual, the Pixel Watch 4 seems ready to match any vibe.
On the tech side, rumors suggest the Pixel Watch 4 will run on Google’s latest Wear OS, offering smoother performance and better battery life. It’s expected to pack advanced health features like heart rate tracking, sleep monitoring, and possibly even stress detection. These tools aim to help users stay on top of their wellness goals.
The leaked video gives a 360-degree view of the watch, highlighting its slim design and vibrant display. While Google hasn’t shared an official release date yet, the Pixel Watch 4 is shaping up to be a strong contender in the smartwatch world. Fans are excited to see how it will blend style and smart features when it finally hits the market.
Android
Google Pixel and Android teams face job cuts

Google has made some tough calls recently, letting go of employees working on its Pixel phones, Android system, and Fitbit devices. The layoffs, which happened earlier this week, affected a small number of staff members, including some managers. The company hasn’t shared exact details about how many people lost their jobs or which teams were hit hardest, but the changes are part of a bigger plan to work smarter and focus on key projects.
Even with these cuts, Google says it’s still committed to building great Pixel phones and improving Android. The company believes these changes will help its teams work better together and create products that users love. Some of the employees who were let go might get a chance to apply for other roles within Google, but it’s not guaranteed that everyone will stay.
This isn’t the first time Google has trimmed its workforce. Last year, it cut jobs in other areas, like its Waze mapping app, as part of efforts to save money and streamline operations. Despite the layoffs, Google insists its plans for Pixel, Android, and Fitbit remain strong. The company is pushing forward with new ideas and products to compete in the crowded tech world.
The news has raised questions about what’s next for Google’s hardware and software teams. Fans of Pixel phones and Android are hopeful the changes won’t slow down the company’s progress. For now, Google is staying focused on delivering updates and new devices while navigating these internal shifts. Only time will tell how these changes shape the future of its products.
Google Keep’s widget gets a fresh look and Google Messages might tone down colors

Google Keep’s widget on Android is getting a makeover to make it more user-friendly. The updated design, now rolling out, uses space better and looks cleaner. The Quick Capture widget, shaped like a clover, now fills its area completely, making it easier to tap.
When resized, it adjusts smartly: a small 2×1 size turns into a single button, while a larger 2×2 size shows note options clearly. The 3×1 version is bigger and simpler to use. This change matches Google’s style for other apps, like Drive, and is part of Keep’s latest update. You might need to reinstall the widget to see it.
Meanwhile, Google Messages could soon look less colorful. The app has been using bright Material You themes, which pull colors from your phone’s wallpaper. But some users find them too bold. A new test shows Messages might switch to simpler, more neutral tones. This would make chats easier on the eyes, especially for those who prefer a clean look. The change isn’t final yet—it’s just being tried out in beta versions. If it goes through, it could make the app feel calmer and more focused.
Both updates show Google tweaking its apps to balance style and function. Keep’s widget aims to make note-taking smoother, while Messages might offer a less distracting chat experience. These changes are gradual, so not everyone will see them right away. Keep an eye out for updates to try them yourself!
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