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Google opens early access to AI control of Google Home devices

Google’s Home MCP server lets compatible, authorised AI agents control supported devices and retrieve smart-home information through natural-language requests.

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Owen Mercer
Markets and Finance Editor
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Source: TechCrunch · View original source
Four fabric-covered smart speakers in white, red, green, and black arranged on a light surface.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Google has opened early access to a Model Context Protocol server for Google Home, allowing compatible AI agents to interact with supported smart-home devices and retrieve information such as camera summaries and activity history.

The service is designed for natural-language requests. Subject to user permissions, agents can control connected devices, review camera summaries, monitor smart-home activity and create custom dashboards. Supported products include Google Nest doorbells and thermostats, along with compatible Works with Google Home and Matter devices.

Users must create a Google Cloud project, configure it for Home MCP and provide the connection details to an agent that supports the protocol. The agent then prompts the user to sign in and grant permissions. Google says a setup guide will also be available through its Google Home Developer Centre.

TechCrunch reported that the rollout begins in the United States for subscribers to Google Home Premium Advanced and will continue over coming weeks. The tier costs US$20 a month and includes features such as extended event-based video history, descriptive notifications, detailed alerts, video-history search and daily summaries.

Google has not specified whether the MCP server will become available in other markets or subscription tiers. It is seeking feedback from early users through its Smart Home for Developers Community.

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