Google has revealed the Google Home smart home platform will finally offer support for smart buttons. This closes off a major loophole in the proposition. Smart Buttons are programmable switches that tech enthusiasts often have dotted around the home. They can have multiple functions based upon the nature of the press.
Used for simple tasks like switching a light on and off, or complex automations like running an entire routing when you wake up in the morning. They can command multiple smart home devices at a time, like the thermostat, smart plugs, lights, blinds and more.
It’s been missing in action on the Google Home platform, but the integration was finally announced as part of the February 2 release notes for the latest Google Home update. The notes under the Starters/Conditions heading state:
Switch or button is pressed**: e.g. “When double tapping the switch…”, “When holding down the button on a dimmer switch…”, or “When the button is released…” ** Available as a starter only
Single or multi-press
Long press
Long press release
Considering Google’s rivals in the space – Apple, Amazon and Samsung – have offered compatibility with smart buttons for a while now, it’s surprising Google has taken so long to act. Especially in the era of Matter, which is supposed to completely level the playing field and enable interoperability among smart home devices and providers.
As The Verge points out, Google may have acted now due to the release of some cheap-as-chips programmable buttons from Ikea. The $6 Bilresa buttons may lead to an increase in the number of users opting to play them around the home.
