Early access to the Gemini voice assistant is now available. Here’s how to get it
Ten years ago, when smart speakers with built-in voice assistants were the hot new thing, many thought they had quickly turned into the smartest things. .
But now that AI generation is here (for better or worse), smart speakers are finally analyzing beyond those expectations. Google’s new version, Gemini for Home, is now available to try. Here it is.
First, remember that the Gemini home voice assistant is on the first end. This means that Google is collecting feedback on its products, and – like all artificial intelligence – It is wise to assume that it will make mistakes. At any time, you can send a reply to Google in the Google Home App or by saying, “Hey Google, send a reply.”
Devices compatible with the Gemini home voice assistant
You’ll also want to check your speaker model before diving in. The Gemini complete home experience is available to try on Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen), Google Nest mini (2nd Gen) and Google Nest Hub Max. Those models all support Gemini Live, which allows a conversation back and forth with the following natural questions.
Other models support all but Gemini Live. That list includes the Google Nest WiFi Point, Google Nest Hub (1st Gen Max Max), Google Home Mini (1st Gen) and Google Home.
Another point is that if you go inside, your Google Assistant days will be over (on your speakers, anyway). That’s because Google says, once you’ve upgraded to Gemini at home, your compatible devices can’t slow down Assistant. That shouldn’t be a problem, but it’s worth keeping in mind before taking the plunge.
How to sign up for Gemini Prime access
Once you’ve confirmed that your speaker(s) are at least partially compatible, head to the Google Home app on the mobile device. There, tap your profile picture (or Initials) at the top right. Then touch Home Settings > Early Access. Congratulations: You have placed your request.
The bad news is that you may have to wait a little longer to confirm your entry into the beta program. Once you’re signed in, you’ll see a notification from the Google Home app that reads, “Introducing Gemini home.” Choose that, and follow the impulse. (If you accidentally dismiss the notification, you’ll see a setup banner under Home settings in the Google Home app.)
Cherlynn is down via Engadget
Meanwhile, all the compatible speakers in your home will be upgraded to Google’s smarter AI assistant. Now you can throw advanced questions at it, similar to what you ask text-based chatbots like chatgpt. Apart from this staying on the shelf, you are ready for your field with your oral requests at any time.
Remember that Gemini Live requires a Google Home Premium subscription. The standard version costs $10 per month or $100 per year. Currently, the Advanced Tier is double that: $20 per month or $200 per year. At least for now, the only difference between the two (for these purposes) is that the pricier system supports the camera’s search feature. Both premium tiers unlock access to gemini live. So, if that’s what you need, you can save money and get the standard.
Google provides many examples to get you started. You can get quick answers to facts, like “HEY Google, who are the top 5 scorers in basketball history?” (Fyi: James, James, Abdul-Jabbar, Solone, Bryant and Jordan.) You can also ask that Gemini ask to have a conversation about supplements for people with dietary supplements. Or, ask him to explain complex topics (like how Wi-Fi works) in simple terms. It might not be at the C-3PO Level yet, but it’s definitely moving in that direction.
