We have been asked about the difference between Google Assistant and a Google Nest speaker for controlling products like AirTouch. How are they different or the same? More homes across Australia are getting smart speakers for the family to call out to: Whether it be to ask a question about the weather, search for an answer online to help with homework, order food, play music or a show on the TV, or control home appliances like the air conditioner. Also, more smartphone users are taking to controlling voice activated assistants on their devices.
The difference between the Google Assistant and the Nest Home Speaker is really easy: Think of Assistant as the voice-controlled interface, and the speaker as another means or piece of technology you can use to interact with it.
Who is Google Assistant?
Google Assistant is the voice-controlled assistant by Google. An AI powered, assistant that is available on smart devices, like your smartphone and speaker such as a Nest. It is a voice-controlled interface that also talks to you with the compatible device that you choose. Available with a “Hey Google” or “Ok Google” when you need it, wherever you are as long as there is an active internet connection with your device.
Google Assistant links with other services and products. You can access and control things like your Netflix, YouTube, Spotify or other online accounts through them, as well as link it with compatible devices. AirTouch works with the Assistant to let you control your home climate with it if you have it on your smartphone or own a compatible speaker.
What about a Google Nest Speaker?
The Google Nest or Home speaker comes in a variety of forms: The Nest Mini or if you are more into listening to music, you may prefer the Nest Audio. Both of these are smart speakers you can call out too. If you want to have an option with a screen, currently in 2021 you can choose the Nest Hub (7”) or Nest Hub Max (10” screen) which even comes with a webcam to let you make Zoom calls for example. All of these are devices that you can use to interface with Google Assistant. They give you the ability to call out to it in your home without having to reach for your phone. A popular and easy choice for voice controlled home automation.
If you want to use your phone or a speaker, you can call out to control your home air conditioning: Learn more about how you can use them with AirTouch here. With AirTouch we are not tied to just one assistant system so you have choice.
2 Responses
Does AirTouch 5 also work with a Google Nest Hub screen? is there an app that can be downloaded onto the Google Nest Hubs, or do we need to rely on voice activation only?
Hi Craig, AirTouch does work with Google Nest Hub for voice control via Google Assistant, or some of the temperature control/thermostat controls on the Nest Hub UI itself. There isn’t a seperate app for it, we have the Android or iOS apps which can work on phone or tablet.