Google Home Button Support: A Game-Changing Update

Google Home users can finally rejoice as the platform has incorporated support for buttons in its latest update. This enhancement, announced in the release notes of the February 2 update, introduces new starter conditions for automations, including the ability to trigger actions based on the pressing of a switch or button.

Smart buttons serve as physical, programmable switches that enable users to initiate automations or control devices within their smart homes. These buttons can perform various tasks such as turning lights on or off, adjusting shades, activating predefined scenes, or even starting a robot vacuum.

Smart buttons offer a convenient alternative to voice commands and app controls, particularly when managing multiple devices. Typically wireless, these buttons often support different press actions such as single press, double press, and long press, allowing for versatile functionality with a single button.

Most smart home platforms, including Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, and Home Assistant, support the use of buttons to interact with connected devices. The introduction of Matter, an interoperability standard, has further simplified device control through buttons, known as generic switches in the Matter specification.

Despite the widespread adoption of smart buttons, Google Home had notably lacked this feature until now. The recent update finally enables users to utilize buttons within the Google Home app for enhanced automation capabilities.

The introduction of Ikea’s new Matter-over-Thread devices, such as the affordable $6 Bilresa wireless button, may have influenced Google’s decision to integrate button support. With the elimination of dedicated hubs and the accessibility of budget-friendly buttons, the smart home market is poised for increased adoption.

In addition to button support, Google’s latest update brings several automation improvements. Users can now create automations triggered by events like a robot vacuum docking, specific humidity levels, or changes in device states.

Furthermore, the update addresses a recurring issue of “Video not available” errors in the Google Home app, providing a foundational fix for smoother video playback experiences.