Google Home app’s AI redesign launches early on iOS

The anticipated October 1 refresh for the Google Home app has been released early for iPhone users. An iPhone 16 Pro Max user shared screenshots on Reddit showing a dramatically redesigned Google Home interface, featuring a new 'Ask Home' search bar and prominent Gemini integration.

The screenshots align with Google's early previews, indicating this is not a limited A/B test. The updated UI offers a cleaner layout and a conversational hub powered by Gemini, Google's AI assistant. 'Ask Home' serves as a central feature, allowing users to type or speak natural-language requests to automate routines, search video and event history, and generate summaries of household activities.

Once enabled, Gemini introduces users to a dedicated chat-like screen, though it includes a disclaimer that 'Gemini can make mistakes.' The level of trust in AI to control home devices may vary among users.

It is notable that iOS users are receiving the new interface before Android users, despite the app's core role in Google's smart home ecosystem. This is likely due to Apple's App Store review process, as Google submitted the update early to meet the October 1 deadline. In contrast, Google can quickly roll out updates on Android via server-side changes.

Android users are not expected to wait long. Some have already reported updated app icons and AI-generated camera event notifications, even if the full UI update has not yet arrived. The early rollout signals Google's significant investment in AI for the smart home sector.