Samsung SmartThings rolls out Google Nest integration, adds Android Auto app

Google Nest’s promised integration with Samsung SmartThings began to roll out with the launch of a Google Nest app for the SmartThings platform. The link between the connection of their respective smart home platforms is designed to allow devices from one company to control those manufactured by the other. There are still noticeable gaps in the device list, but even the incomplete Nest app adds plenty of new options for SmartThings users interested in Google Nest devices.

Smart Certified

SmartThings users can add Nest devices to the platform after they install the new Nest app. The app can search for available devices nearby, or the user can navigate a menu and add Nest devices manually. Nest devices on the app have been certified in the Works With SmartThings (WWST) program to ensure there won’t be any issues with the software. Integration goes the other way as well, with multiple SmartThings devices now controllable with Google Assistant, as expected. The deal extends to Samsung’s recent addition of Google Assistant to its smart TVs, sharing the devices with Samsung Bixby. That said, the current SmartThings app listing does not include some Nest product lines due to currently incompatible APIs, such as smoke detectors and security systems. However, the missing elephant in the room is the Google Nest smart speakers and smart displays at the center of Google’s smart home ecosystem. When or even if these crucial blanks will be filled is unclear.

Google “is working with Samsung to make it easier to manage smart home products from your device,” Google explained in a blog post. “You can control Nest devices, such as Nest thermostats, cameras and doorbells, from the SmartThings app on Galaxy smartphones and tablets. View all your connected devices on one screen by tapping “Devices” in the Galaxy S21 Quick Panel. “

Smart reader

SmartThings and Google are expanding their partnership beyond the home and into cars as well. Android Auto has added a SmartThings app, allowing to control SmartThings devices via Google Assistant from a vehicle and to control the car via SmartThings. As spotted and shared on Reddit, the SmartThings icon appears on the Android Auto screen, allowing drivers to turn lights or other devices on or off remotely. Conversely, Galaxy smartphones can use SmartThings to locate, unlock and even start a car’s engine if it is compatible with Samsung’s digital key service. The list of cars capable of connecting to SmartThings will grow soon, thanks to Samsung’s partnership with the Car Connectivity Consortium to standardize its digital key for more car brands. Assuming Google and Samsung continue to tie their systems together as planned, their integration is a good goal for interoperability of AI platforms. Relaxing limitations for customers when deciding which smart home devices to buy could be a boon for the two tech giants as they compete with more exclusive smart home ecosystems like Amazon Alexa.

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