Google has significantly expanded its smart home ecosystem by opening up API access to its Google Home platform.This strategic decision provides application developers with the opportunity to connect with an extensive network of more than 600 million devices linked to Google Home, empowering them to leverage the platform’s robust automation capabilities to develop creative applications for users across both iOS and Android devices.

Expanding the Smart Home Ecosystem

The new Home APIs can integrate any Matter or Works with Google Home device, enabling developers to embed Google Home devices and automations directly into their apps.

This marks a major shift for Google, especially following the closure of its Works with Nest program in 2019.

In a blog post during the Google I/O developer conference, Google highlighted early access partners such as ADT and Eve.

ADT is leveraging the APIs to introduce a Trusted Neighbor feature, which allows customers to grant secure, temporary access to their homes.

Eve, a smart home device manufacturer, is utilizing the APIs to bring its app to Android and create helpful automations, such as lowering blinds at night.

Google's Chromecast with a remote — Google’s Chromecast with a remote

Local Control and Enhanced Automation

One of the most notable advancements is the addition of local control to Google Home hubs, including Chromecast with Google TV.

This development will significantly improve response times and automation capabilities by enabling direct local commands to Matter devices.

The Verge reported that Matt Van Der Staay, Google’s engineering director, explained that the APIs could connect smart home devices to a variety of apps beyond the typical smart home scope. For instance, fitness apps could automatically adjust home environments during workouts, or delivery apps could manage home lighting for deliveries.

Turning TVs into Smart Home Hubs

Later this year, Google will upgrade Chromecast with Google TV, select Google TV panel TVs running Android 14 or higher, and some LG TVs to function as Google Home hubs.

These upgrades will also enable Thread border routing if the devices are equipped with Thread chips.

The Verge noted that Anish Kattukaran, head of products at Google Home and Nest, emphasized that this update would enhance local control, reducing latency by routing commands directly through local hubs when devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.

Developer Opportunities and Security

Google is opening a waitlist for developers to access the Home APIs, with the first apps expected to be available in the fall.

Developers must pass certification and users will need to grant explicit access to their devices, ensuring privacy and security.

The Verge highlighted that the potential applications are vast, from setting up complex smart home management systems to integrating simple device controls into existing apps.

For example, Yale is using the Automation API to control lighting through its Yale Access app when the front door is unlocked.

The Promise of Matter

Matter, the new interoperability standard supported by Google, Apple, Amazon, and Samsung, underpins this expansion. Designed for secure, private, and easy-to-set-up smart home communication, Matter supports a wide range of devices and promises seamless integration across different ecosystems.

Google I/O 2024

Conclusion

Google’s recent release of new Home APIs and the conversion of Google TVs into smart home hubs signifies a major advancement for the smart home industry.
This strategic move not only expands the reach of smart home technology but also unlocks a myriad of opportunities for developers to design sophisticated, interconnected smart home solutions.
This development has the potential to revolutionize how we interact with and control our home environments, offering a glimpse into the future of interconnected, intelligent living spaces.