Google has been on a mission to enhance the user experience of its Google Home app, and after a redesign in May 2023, it’s now bringing the “Home Panel” feature to Pixel device owners. This feature, initially available on Pixel Tablets, has now expanded to include the latest Pixel Fold, Pixel 7a, and older Google phones. The Home Panel offers a seamless and efficient way to control smart home devices and accessories without having to open the Google Home app.
Home Panel: A Quick Access Solution for Smart Home Control
The Home Panel, part of the June 2023 Feature Drop for Pixel users, allows you to easily access and manage your smart home devices and accessories. It eliminates the need to navigate through the app and lets you control everything using shortcuts on the Google Home Lock Screen or the Home toggle in the Quick Settings panel.
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Efficient Home Control with Home Panel
Upon receiving the update, Pixel users will notice that the Google Home Panel is divided into two sections: groups of devices at the top and a list of “Favorites” below. This layout will be familiar to those who use the Favorites tab in the Google Home app. The new interface offers a streamlined and intuitive way to control your connected devices.
Convenient Device Management
With the Home Panel, you can easily turn lights on and off directly from the lock screen without having to unlock your device. This quick access feature makes it convenient to manage your smart home even when your phone is secured. However, for security cameras linked to your Google Home favorites, you will need to unlock your phone first before accessing live previews.
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Availability
Currently, the Home Panel is exclusively available for Pixel owners who have already downloaded the June 2023 Feature Drop. Unfortunately, there is no official word yet on whether this update will be extended to users of other Android devices beyond the Pixel lineup.
Conclusion
Google’s commitment to improving the Home app has resulted in the introduction of the Home Panel feature. With its quick access and seamless device control capabilities, Pixel users can now enjoy an enhanced smart home experience. As for non-Pixel users, we hope that Google will consider extending this convenient feature to other Android devices in the future. In the meantime, Pixel owners can take advantage of the update and make the most of their smart home with the Google Home app.
