Google Assistant, the artificial intelligence software built into Android handsets and the Google Home smart speaker system, now can control more than 5,000 smart devices, Google announced Thursday. That’s up from just 1,500 products in January and the list of supported products includes everything from cameras and security systems to doorbells, locks and lights, to dryers, dishwashers and refrigerators. Google’s smart home platform has grown exponentially since its released in the fall of 2016. It can turn an ordinary living room into an entertainment center, with the handset designated as the main control panel for gizmos and gadgets throughout the house.
Google now supports devices from every major electronics product brand, and the list continues to grow. Google recently announced that it would offer support for IKEA lights and Deutsche Telekom’s Magenta hub of products. Plans for this month include Google Assistant integration with DISH’s Hopper family of set-top boxes; security alarm devices from ADT, First Alert and Vivint Smart Home; smart door locks from August and Schlage; and home security cameras from Panasonic. Many other products will add Google Assistant compatibility in the coming months, including Hunter Douglas window treatments, Hisense’s line of H9E Plus TVs, and LG appliances.
Google and Amazon appear to have a solid lead in the smart home space. Amazon earlier this year boasted Alexa voice assistant integration with around 4,000 devices. That number hasn’t been updated since then, but it is clear that the two companies are well ahead of rival systems such as Apple’s HomeKit and Samsung’s SmartThings. Those platforms each list support for around 200 devices. Given that manufacturers may be inclined to pick just one “team” to support, closing the gap could be very difficult. Google has been able to leverage its vast ecosystem of developers to bring all of its own technology to bear in this race with Amazon.
Consumers ultimately will decide which platform or platforms will be winners in the smart home market.
