Technology is evolving at an incredible pace, and it's exciting to see that happening in real time. Certainly, we're still years away from reaching the level of " smart homes " we see in movies and TV shows, but we're getting closer slowly but surely. Being part of the Android ecosystem and recently upgrading my Nest Home Hub to Gemini has given many a glimpse into what the future might look like, especially when it comes to efficiently running a smart home.
While waiting for Ultrahouse 3000 and Pierce Brosnan to show up in the house, they can at least make their home feel a little more modern with a few simple routines, making them feel like their surroundings are serving them. Plus, they don't have to worry about Gemini plotting evil against them like in an episode of Treehouse of Horror.
Set up game or movie automation.
Just a few words can make a big difference.
At the end of the day, many people like to sit down and enjoy a game or a movie. When they ask the Nest Hub to start their custom game or movie processes, the lights will automatically adjust, the volume will be increased or decreased, and Google TV will automatically turn on. If you run this automation directly from your phone, it can also silence your phone, so you won't be disturbed by anyone trying to intrude on your leisure time.
Specific triggers can be added through the Home app or directly on the Nest Home Hub. This allows you to precisely visualize what you want it to do and specifically adjust which lights or devices you want to trigger or change during the process.
"Leave Home" and "Return Home" modes
There's no need to turn on the heater when you're away from home.
This feature has been around for quite some time, and finally many people have equipped themselves with enough smart home devices to use it effectively. Because you have a smart thermostat, multiple smart light bulbs, and even some smart locks in your home, as soon as it signals you're leaving, the Gemini-powered Hub will take care of everything for you.
Lower the heating or air conditioning temperature, turn on the lights, and even lock the door if you forgot to check, if your smart lock has Wi-Fi connectivity . It does everything you need and almost everything in between. Return mode does the same thing, but in reverse. It feels like you have a robotic butler living in your house, and it's a great feature for families.
The habit of saying "Good morning" helps to start the day off right.
News, weather information, and everything else within earshot.
One of the best habits automatically integrated into Gemini (or Home Assistant ) is the "Good Morning" habit. Just like you greet a friend, simply say "Hey Google, good morning" to receive a wealth of useful news, weather information, and even some media adjustments.
You can also customize this to your liking and add additional triggers, especially if you want it to start playing music afterward.
Reading is now much more relaxing.
'Focus time' creates the right atmosphere and helps you get ready to immerse yourself in reading.
Recently, many people have been reviving their old Kindles, having promised themselves they'd read more. Sure, people enjoy games and various media, but returning to the basics and immersing yourself in a good book is always a good plan. By setting up a 'Focus Time' routine on your device, the Nest Hub will dim the lights, change the colors, and play soothing background music. Nothing pairs better with a little classical music and a good book.
This is also a great reminder to take some time to relax and temporarily disconnect from the real world. If you've been organizing your ebook collection on your computer for a while, now is the perfect time to start reading them.
Goodnight habits when it's time to go to bed
Smart sockets are perfect for things like this.
Some people just need some noise when they sleep. Usually, that noise and a gentle breeze come from a fan connected to a smart plug in the bedroom, and with a quick "Good night" message sent to the Nest Hub, they're ready to go to sleep. The fan turns on, and one of the lights in the living room turns off while the other dims to 1% brightness, leaving the light on for their cat.
Additionally, with the "Good Morning" routine, the fan and lights will turn off completely. Then, you're ready to listen to what the day has to offer and start the day easily.