Google's advanced Gemini AI, previously exclusive to first-party Google and Nest devices, could be making its way to third-party smart home hardware. Recent reports have revealed Gemini AI running on a Lenovo smart display, signaling a possible broader rollout beyond Google’s own ecosystem. This development offers promising news for owners of smart displays and speakers from brands other than Google, who have so far missed out on this powerful AI upgrade.
Expanding Gemini AI Beyond Google Devices
While Gemini AI has been integrated into Android and iOS devices, its availability in the smart home sector has largely remained restricted to Google’s own devices — until now. The appearance of Gemini on third-party hardware like Lenovo’s smart display offers hope that Google may be shifting towards a more inclusive strategy, breaking down the previously closed ecosystem walls.
Current Compatible Devices with Gemini for Home
As of now, Google lists the following hardware as officially supporting Gemini AI for the smart home:
- Google Nest Hub (2nd gen)
- Google Nest Hub Max
- Google Nest Hub (1st gen)
- Google Home Max
- Google Nest Mini (2nd gen)
- Google Home Mini (1st gen)
- Google Nest Audio
- Google Home
- Google Nest Wifi point
Why This Matters More Than It Seems
Google’s smart home approach has been somewhat fragmented in the past. Competing with Amazon’s Alexa, which is deeply embedded in many third-party devices, Google aimed to build a similar expansive ecosystem by partnering with companies like Lenovo and JBL to produce smart displays. However, software support often lagged, leaving many third-party users without access to the latest AI features.
The potential Gemini rollout to third-party smart home products is a big step. It suggests that Google is recommitting to supporting a wider range of hardware, breathing new life into devices that many assumed would be left behind in the technological dust. This move could mark a renewed focus on executing the company’s original vision for Google Assistant’s successor, Gemini.
Community Insight
We asked our readers if they own third-party Google Home devices that could benefit from a Gemini AI refresh. So far, 100% of respondents say yes, showing strong interest and demand for expanded Gemini support.
A Strategy Correction Long Overdue
Google’s approach to smart home hardware has often felt inconsistent, with partnerships producing devices that sometimes lacked ongoing software updates and support. This update signals a possible turning point, where Google aims to finally deliver on the promise of making Gemini AI available across a broad spectrum of smart home gadgets — regardless of manufacturer.
