Google reveals its Gemini-powered smart home lineup and AI strategy

Google has unveiled a refreshed lineup of smart home devices powered by its new AI assistant, Gemini AI, including updated Nest Cam Outdoor, Nest Cam Indoor, and Nest Doorbell models. The company also previewed an upgraded Google Home smart speaker expected in spring 2026 and announced a partnership with Walmart to offer affordable AI-enabled cameras and doorbells under the onn brand. Google’s strategy emphasizes making Gemini accessible not only through its own flagship hardware but also by enabling other manufacturers to integrate Gemini into their devices, similar to how Android operates across various smartphone brands and price points. To maximize reach, Google plans to first roll out Gemini features to existing devices with sufficient processing power, leveraging its ecosystem of over 800 million devices connected via Google Home Cloud-to-Cloud Plus. This phased approach allows Google to test and refine Gemini’s capabilities before launching on new flagship products. Additionally, Google is providing partners with a comprehensive toolkit—including reference hardware designs, SoC recommendations, and an embedded camera SDK—to facilitate the development of