Google announced That it is bringing new updates to the Google Home app Which gives Workspace users the ability to manage smart home devices and share permissions directly through their professional or custom-domain accounts. This change removes previous restrictions that limited Workspace users from fully participating in Home Sharing.
Previously, a user with a custom email couldn’t grant home control to family members (even on the same domain), however now users will be able to manage access levels for any guest or family member regardless of their account type. Additionally, users with older Nest accounts from 2019 or earlier can now transfer their data directly to a Workspace account.
Google says this extends to hardware as well, and Workspace accounts will now be compatible with the initial setup process for the latest Nest Learning Thermostat and Nest Doorbell.
For organizations, Google announced new administrator toggles within the Workspace console that can enable or disable Google Home access for entire organizations, specific units, or specified groups. If an administrator disables this control, users will lose access to the Home app and all connected services.
Google notes that users will want to stick to personal Gmail accounts for primary home setups to avoid losing access to their smart devices when leaving the employer or school. Additionally, some limitations still exist for Workspace users, including a lack of access to some Google Assistant personal results and the inability to enroll in early access for Gemini for Home.
