Google Home simplifies smart home sharing! New roles and features are added

Google has introduced an update to the Google Home app (version 3.33), which brings improved home sharing and management options. The main new feature is the addition of a new «Member» role, which allows detailed configuration of permissions for individual household members or guests.

When inviting a new user to the home, you can now choose between two basic roles. The first is Admin, who has full permissions and can manage household members, add devices, and also set up automations and delete history.

The second of these roles is the aforementioned Member. This is a role with limited rights that can be individually adjusted using two switches:

• Settings – allows managing devices and home settings.
• Activity – allows viewing device and home history (e.g., camera footage, door locks, or Wi-Fi).

Google is thus responding to user requests who want to define more precisely who has access to which functions. A complete overview of permissions in the Google Home app can be found in the official post on the Google Nest Community.

Children gain access to Google Home for the first time

Another major new feature is the ability to add children under 13 (or other age according to the laws of the given country) to the home. Children must be part of a Google family group and will only have limited «Member» access.

Children can now, for example, control lighting or music, or unlock doors when returning from school. This change is a significant step for parents towards greater safety, but also greater convenience.

How do you perceive the possibility of more detailed permission management in Google Home?

Source: Google Nest Community