Admins in the public preview can grant either full or partial access to smart devices around the home.
Google Home Tests New Feature to Share Smart Device Control with Friends and Family
Google Home is introducing a new feature that enables friends and family members to help manage smart devices in your home. This feature offers two access levels: “Admin” for full control over account and device settings, and “Member” for those requiring more limited access.
Admin Access: Full Control for Trusted Partners
Google explains that Admin access is designed for “trusted partners or people who co-manage the home with you.” Admins have full control, including the ability to:
- Add, remove, and manage users,
- Add and remove devices, and
- Link subscriptions to the home account.
Member Access: Customizable Permissions
For Members, access is more tailored and includes control over basic device features. Members can:
- Manage basic device settings,
- View live feeds from security cameras, and
- Adjust personal settings like Voice Match and Face Match for Google Assistant.
Google further divides Member permissions into two additional tiers for greater flexibility:
- Settings Access – Allows users to control devices and manage home-wide settings, such as automation and Nest Wifi network features.
- Activity Access – Grants users permission to view device history and home-wide activity, including data from cameras, locks, and sensors.
How to Invite Users to Google Home Access
This customizable access feature was first unveiled in November, alongside the Google Home extension for Gemini. As of now, only users enrolled in the Google Home public preview can invite others to the new access levels.
To add someone as an Admin or Member:
- Open the Google Home app.
- Navigate to Settings > Household and Access.
- Tap the plus (+) icon to invite a new member.
Those you invite don’t need to be part of the public preview but must have the latest version of the Google Home app installed.