# Google Brings Gemini Live to Older Home Devices

Nest Hub and Home Mini can now chat with the AI assistant.

- **Source:** [Android Police](https://brifing.si/source/a7444c3b-8025-40d3-b68b-72e44d7adc84)
- **Published:** 2026-07-24
- **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business)
- **Original article:** <https://www.androidpolice.com/gemini-live-coming-to-your-old-google-home-devices/>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/d3144336-fcba-4b47-ac2d-dad6d985d192

## New Life for Old Devices

Google is expanding Gemini Live support to first-gen Nest Hub and Home Mini devices with the July 2026 update. Previously unsupported due to hardware limitations, these devices can now access the AI assistant for Home Premium subscribers by saying 'Hey Google, let's chat.'

## Contextual Memory Feature

The update introduces a 15-minute conversational memory window for Gemini Live. Users can now reference previous conversations when asking questions or giving commands. For example, you can increase bedroom temperature by 2 degrees and then ask for an additional degree later without repeating the context.

## Subscription Barrier

New features aren't available for free users. Access to Gemini Live on older devices requires a Google Home Premium subscription. This move aligns with Google's strategy to shift toward subscription-based revenue models for smart home services.

## Google Home Improvements

The update isn't limited to Gemini Live. The Google Home app receives user-friendly enhancements like precise blind controls, password change reminders when removing members, and more accurate camera battery notifications. iOS users will experience fewer video playback errors.

## Nest Camera Upgrades

An upcoming Nest camera update promises better connection reliability, faster setup, and improved activity zones. Walmart's onn-branded outdoor cameras are also joining the Gemini built-in program, expanding Google's smart home ecosystem.

## AI Race in Smart Homes

Google's move highlights the growing importance of AI assistants in the smart home market. By bringing new features to older devices instead of forcing upgrades, Google demonstrates a customer retention strategy that prioritizes long-term user loyalty over short-term hardware sales.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.androidpolice.com/gemini-live-coming-to-your-old-google-home-devices/ — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._
