Latest news with #GoogleHome
Android Authority
a day ago
- Android Authority
Google Home is becoming a house of glitches, users say
TL;DR Google Home and Nest users are reporting a significant decline in reliability, with devices frequently misunderstanding commands or failing to respond at all. Core features like controlling lights, routines, and speaker groups seem to be breaking down. While the exact cause of the downgraded experience is unclear, users suspect upcoming Gemini updates are to blame. Google's smart speakers and hubs appear to be steadily declining in performance. A recent Reddit thread has highlighted just how these devices, especially older Nest hubs and speakers, have become more unreliable over the years, and it's not the first time users have voiced these concerns. 'Now, I can barely get it to understand any command, or do anything that I could before. Nothing works, and all I get is – Sorry, something went wrong, try again later,' wrote a frustrated user. Users are reporting problems ranging from misheard commands and delayed responses to devices performing the wrong actions or entirely ignoring instructions. Everyday tasks like turning lights on or off, playing music in specific rooms, or running morning routines simply don't work like they used to. Are your Google Home or Nest speakers and hubs still working as expected? 0 votes Yes, everything works fine. NaN % Mostly, some minor issues, but nothing major. NaN % Not really, frequent glitches or failed commands. NaN % No, they've become nearly unusable. NaN % I've already stopped using them. NaN % What's concerning is that these aren't just a few isolated complaints. It seems to be a pattern affecting users who have invested heavily in Google's smart home hardware. Features that once worked without a hitch, like controlling speakers in multiple rooms or triggering routines based on voice recognition, have become erratic or completely non-functional for many. One user described how they can no longer play white noise in their child's room. Instead, the sound plays in whatever room they happen to be standing in. Another user shared a strange issue where asking for the weather gives different results depending on who is speaking in their home. 'I ask for the weather, and it responds correctly every time. My wife asks for the weather, and it literally picks wherever it wants. Yesterday it was Eddyville, Kentucky. Today it picked Shawnee, Oklahoma. We don't even live in that state,' reported another user. Some users have also reported bizarre malfunctions. One person said that whenever they ask their Google device to turn off a fan, it turns off all the lights instead. Another user described how a simple request to turn off bedroom lights leads to shutting off every light in and around their home. While the exact cause of these issues is unclear, the common theme is that Google's smart home devices, especially older models, seem to be getting worse over time. Some users suspect that updates related to Google's upcoming Gemini integration are to blame. Others think it could be a deliberate move to phase out older hardware in favor of new devices. Whatever the reason, one thing is clear. Many Google Home users are no longer getting the smart experience they signed up for, and they are not happy about it. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
The Verge
6 days ago
- Business
- The Verge
Google is raising the price of Nest Aware subscriptions again
Google is raising the price of its Nest Aware and Nest Aware Plus subscriptions starting in August 2025. According to emails sent out to subscribers today, the cost of the entry-level Nest Aware service is increasing from $8 per month or $80 per year to $10 per month or $100 when paying for a full year up front. Nest Aware Plus is going from $15 per month or $150 per year to $20 per month or $200 annually. Google says the new pricing will go into effect 'on your first bill that occurs on or after August 15, 2025, or at the end of your promotional period (whichever is later).' The company last increased its Nest subscription prices in September 2023. Google's Nest devices can be used without a subscription, but you'll only have access to a few hours of saved footage without either Nest Aware or Nest Aware Plus. Nest Aware includes 30 days of event-based video history. Nest Aware Plus expands that to 60 days, plus the last 10 days of 24/7 footage from supported devices. Both subscription tiers include features like Familiar Faces that can recognize friends and family, sound detection that alerts you when glass breaks or smoke alarms are triggered, and the option to call the 911 emergency call center nearest your home through the Google Home app while you're away. Price increases are never welcome, but the new Nest Aware subscription fees are comparable to what Google's competitors charge for advanced AI-powered features that can recognize faces and accurately describe the content of videos. Ring Home's Premium plan is currently $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year. Arlo Plus is cheaper at $7.99 per month if you have just one camera, but for multiple cameras it's $17.99 per month. Both Nest Aware and Nest Aware Plus support an unlimited number of devices in the same home. Google didn't specify a reason for the increases, though there is a Gemini-powered camera intelligence feature for Nest Aware Plus currently available to a limited number of 'select Home app users' through Google's Public Preview beta program. The feature generates more descriptive captions of recorded camera events, such as 'the dog is digging in the garden.'
7NEWS
15-07-2025
- Business
- 7NEWS
Best-selling Breville 2-in-1 dehumidifer and purifier for the home drops to lowest price yet at Amazon Australia
Sick of a stuffy room or noticed an increase of lingering odors or dust? The Breville 2-in-1 Dehumidifer and Purifier ($439.20) is going to be a game-changer for your home. This small and compact device is designed to improve the air quality, reduce allergens and mold growth, particularly during the colder months when we tend to keep windows closed. Perfect for placing in any room, bathroom or living space up to 50m2, the All Climate 2-in-1 can extract upto eight litres of moisture a day to help keep mould and dampness at bay. You can even monitor and control the device from the couch using the Breville Home Connect app — there's even voice command available via Amazon Alexa & Google Home/Assistant. Best yet, hundreds of Aussies are switching expensive dryer loads and opting for the 'laundry mode' on this device instead. Quick and efficient, it can dry your clothes in no time at all. Currently reduced from $549 to just $439.20 — get in quick before this limited time deal expires. 8L in size, the Breville 2-in-1 Dehumidifer and Purifier is perfect for use during the winter to crack down on mould build up and stuffy air flow. Designed for any room in the house, it works well in rooms up to 50m2 and can even assist with your laundry routine. Simply use the Set & Forget SensAir System with your preferred humidity level, monitor the progress using the Breville Home Connect App, and the auto shut off will stop the device once the tank is full. Thanks to the AntiViral HEPA-13 Purification, the All Climate 2-in-1 will help to draw in any airborne impurities, leaving your home feeling and smelling fresh. Breville is a trusted homewares brand, with 94 per cent positive ratings from over 10 thousand customers who have purchased items at Amazon Australia. Those who have got their hands on the Breville 2-in-1 Dehumidifer and Purifier says it is a 'great unit'. 'Looks, feels, and performs premium. Both dehumidifier and air purifying functions operate at a high quality, making the rooms feel fresh and clean,' one shopper commented.
CNET
15-07-2025
- Business
- CNET
The Security Cam I Recommend for Anyone on a Budget Is Over Now 40% Off
I've tested dozens of security cameras over the years from brands like Blink, Lorex, Ring and Arlo. No matter which model I'm looking at, one thing always holds constant: A camera with premium features is typically going to come with a hefty price tag. Prices for just a single camera can easily run $200 or even more. So when you're trying to put together a system with multiple cameras, the total cost can get out of hand quickly. But the second-gen Arlo Essential 2K cam surprisingly manages to stand out from the pack and I recommend it as an affordable security solution for those who are on a budget. Right now you can get a single camera for $60, which is a discount of 40%. A pack of five is $300, or 25% off, and there are also bundles available that come with either two or three cameras included. What I like about the Arlo security camera While testing the Arlo Essential 2K Cam, I found the indoor-outdoor wireless camera performs well. The 2K resolution helps gather plenty of details, it's highly weather resistant and Arlo's app excels at walkthroughs on how to set up and use the cam. Other common features include two-way audio, color night vision and a built-in siren. Arlo isn't done yet. The cam's integrated spotlight did a great job of lighting up my backyard -- and if you prefer other smart home platforms, it plays well with Alexa and Google Home, as well as IFTTT (no Apple HomeKit support at this time but it's a possibility). For more, here are CNET's picks for the best home security systems. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. Arlo wins at customization in the home security conversation I liked a lot of what the Arlo Essential does but it's not too different from what many other security cameras do -- just surprisingly affordable. I really like Arlo's UI and smart home integration too, with an app that's easy to understand and pops open for a quick look at your home when you're out on the town (and that doesn't even require a subscription). It's the deeper customization features that really impressed me. Those who like to tinker with their home security setup will love the beta-version custom detection options that come with higher-tier subscriptions, in addition to facial and vehicle recognition. I haven't seen custom setups like this on any other security camera before. In my tests, I was able to "teach" the cam AI to recognize when a pet toy appeared on camera or when certain objects were no longer present. I could also use this feature to tell me when the garage door opened or if something valuable (say, a piece of artwork) disappeared. Likewise, the vehicle detection options can tell if a specific vehicle is pulling up to your home. I've never seen anything else like this for those who really want to push their home security to the limits. Arlo's Essential cam is a great deal but keep in mind Arlo's subscription options. Arlo Arlo cams for yourself or others With Arlo's easy and informative setup process, the Essential camera is a great choice even if you or your family haven't tried a security camera before. As long as a user is comfortable trying out a new app and following the instructions, Arlo is an excellent experience. I rate the app and user-friendliness around Blink's level, another one of my favorite camera apps. With indoor/outdoor placement, the camera is also versatile so you don't have to worry about people not finding a place to use it. You could also spend a bit more to upgrade the camera with an extended battery and a solar panel, an effective combo if you want to avoid manually charging the battery as much as possible. It still needs a Wi-Fi connection but this combo is great for out-of-the-way spots like above my garage door or a high point on roof eaves. If you're thinking about getting this Arlo Essential camera as a gift, keep in mind Arlo locks quite a few important features behind its $8-plus monthly subscription, including smart alerts with object recognition and cloud video storage. So while the camera is usable without fees, there's a strong incentive to pay. Arlo does offer a free trial of its services but that could feel like a bait-and-switch to give recipients who aren't expecting a security camera. If you want to give the cam as a gift, you may want to add some PayPal or Venmo cash to cover at least several months of a subscription. If you're on the hunt for other options, check out our full list of the best home security cameras of 2025.
Chicago Tribune
14-07-2025
- Chicago Tribune
Crown Point man charged in second domestic violence case this year
A Crown Point man was charged with his second domestic violence case this year. Joseph I. Miyake, 37, was charged July 3 with two counts of domestic battery. He has pleaded not guilty in both cases. His lawyer Russell Brown did not respond to a request for comment Friday. When Crown Point police responded to Miyake's home on the 4800 block of W. 92nd Ave. on July 1 after a 911 call, he eventually admitted he broke a vase with a baseball bat, according to charging documents. His wife said he smashed a Google Home device after they started arguing. Then, he dragged her 6-year-old son by his shirt toward the door and told him, 'get out.' The boy said afterwards his neck hurt. The woman said Miyake took a baseball bat and destroyed a vase on the kitchen counter. A broken piece flew off and hit her near her eye. In handcuffs, Miyake collapsed momentarily outside. He was taken to the hospital then transported to jail. Court filings show his wife filed for divorce the next day — July 2. In the earlier case, he was charged June 6 with three counts of domestic battery and one count of strangulation for an incident on Feb. 17. A charging affidavit states Miyake's wife called police. He pulled and twisted her arm, trying to grab her cellphone. He slapped her, then choked her from behind, charges allege. She got away, then grabbed his cell off the bed and locked herself in the nearby bathroom. He took a power drill and took the doorknob off. Officers saw red marks on her neck, elbow and wrist, plus other marks on her right hand from another incident. A different son, 12, told officers that Miyake shoved him aside when he went to check on his mom. A man with the same name, birthday and address as Miyake is listed as a Highland family law and civil attorney. His firm didn't return a request for comment Friday. Both trials are scheduled in October. A special prosecutor, former Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill, is prosecuting both cases. He was not immediately available for comment Monday. Four women — former state Rep. Mara Candelaria Reardon and then-statehouse staffers Niki DaSilva, Samantha Lozano, Gabrielle McLemore — dropped a lawsuit in December against Hill, accusing him of drunkenly groping them during a post-statehouse session wrap party at an Indianapolis bar in 2018.
