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How to Add and Connect Smart Devices to Google Home App

The Google Home app allows you to set up and control smart devices in your home using your Android or iOS device. With the Google Home app, you can connect smart lights, plugs, cameras, thermostats, locks, sensors, and hundreds of other compatible devices.

Adding and connecting smart devices to the Google Home app is quick and easy. Once set up, you can control your devices using your voice through Google Assistant or manually in the app. This guide will walk you through the process of adding smart devices to the Google Home app.

Prerequisites Before Adding Devices

Before adding devices, make sure:

  • You have the Google Home app installed on your Android or iOS device. You can download it for free from the Play Store or App Store.
  • Your smart devices are compatible with Google Assistant. Check the device packaging or manufacturer website.
  • Your phone and smart devices are on the same WiFi network.

Adding Smart Lights

Smart lights like bulbs and light strips are one of the most popular devices to connect. Here is how to add them:

  • Open the Google Home app and tap the + icon to add devices.
  • Select Set up device > Works with Google > Have something already set up?
  • Choose the Light brand and follow the in-app instructions. You may need to open the light’s manufacturer app.
  • Give the light a name and room location. Tap Save.

You can now say “Hey Google, turn on the kitchen lights” to control your smart lights by voice!

Adding Smart Plugs

Smart plugs allow you to voice control lamps, fans, and other plugged-in devices. To add:

  • Tap the + icon in the Google Home app.
  • Select Set up device > Works with Google > Have something already set up?
  • Choose the smart plug’s brand and follow the in-app instructions to connect it.
  • Name the smart plug and assign it a room. Tap Save.

Try saying “Hey Google, turn on the fan” to control the smart plug!

Adding Smart Cameras

Connecting smart security cameras allows you to view live feeds and receive notifications through the Google Home app.

  • Tap Add > Set up device > Works with Google > Have something already set up?
  • Select the camera brand and follow the instructions to link accounts.
  • Give the camera a name and room. Enable notifications if desired.
  • Tap Save. Open the Home app to view your camera feed!

Adding Smart Thermostats

Connecting your smart thermostat allows temperature control through voice commands.

  • Tap the + icon in the Google Home app.
  • Choose Set up device > Works with Google > Have something already set up?
  • Select your thermostat brand and follow instructions to link accounts.
  • Name the thermostat, assign a home/room, and enable relevant features.
  • Tap Save. Try saying “Hey Google, set the thermostat to 72 degrees.”

Adding Smart Locks

Adding smart locks lets you check if doors are locked and lock/unlock them with voice commands.

  • Open the Google Home app and tap the + icon.
  • Select Set up device > Works with Google.
  • Choose your smart lock brand and follow instructions to connect accounts.
  • Name the lock, assign home/room, and adjust settings.
  • Tap Save. Test it by saying “Hey Google, is the front door locked?”

Adding Other Smart Devices

You can connect hundreds of other smart devices like sensors, switches, vacuums, and more. The process is similar:

  • Open Google Home app and tap the + icon.
  • Choose Set up device > Works with Google.
  • Select device brand and follow in-app linking instructions.
  • Name device, assign room, adjust settings.
  • Tap Save. Try controlling with your voice!

Arranging Devices by Room

Once you’ve added your smart devices, you can arrange them by room in the Google Home app:

  • Tap the ≡ menu icon and choose Home Control.
  • Tap the + button to create a new room.
  • Name the room and tap Save. Repeat to make multiple rooms.
  • Tap on a device and select Room > Choose an existing room to assign it.

This allows you to control all devices in a room together. Try saying “Hey Google, turn off the bedroom” to turn off all bedroom devices!

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter issues getting devices to connect:

  • Make sure your phone and devices are on the same WiFi.
  • Check if 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks have different SSIDs and connect phone/devices to the same one.
  • Reboot your router and devices.
  • Ensure your devices meet system requirements.
  • Check manufacturer app for firmware updates.

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