Updated

Updated · 9to5Google · Jul 8

Gemini Redesigns Nest Hub Answers With Visual Cards, Improves Sports and Follow-Ups

Updated

Updated · 9to5Google · Jul 8

Gemini Redesigns Nest Hub Answers With Visual Cards, Improves Sports and Follow-Ups

Q: As Google Assistant becomes Gemini, will core smart home features now demand a paid subscription?

No. Google’s shift from Google Assistant to Gemini does not put basic smart home controls behind a paywall. For Nest Hub and Smart Display users, the rollout described in the news story centers on free improvements to the built-in assistant: better weather and knowledge cards, more reliable sports updates, smoother media browsing, easier feedback tools, and a less disruptive “Continued Conversation.” Those are part of the standard Gemini-for-Home upgrade, not a subscription add-on. What does appear to be paid are the more advanced AI and home-monitoring features Google is layering on top. Reporting and product details indicate Google Home Premium plans start around $10 a month, with higher tiers available. Those paid features include Gemini Live’s more open-ended conversational mode, natural-language search of Nest camera history, home summaries, some voice-created automations, and expanded camera recording or event history on higher plans. So the practical answer is that everyday functions such as turning lights on and off, adjusting thermostats, playing media, asking routine questions, and using the upgraded assistant remain free on compatible devices. The subscription is for premium AI experiences and enhanced camera or automation tools, not for core smart home operation itself. That makes the Gemini transition more of a two-tier model: the base assistant stays included, while Google monetizes the more advanced, AI-heavy features.

3 articles · Updated · 9to5Google · Jul 8

Google is rolling out redesigned Gemini responses on Nest Hub and other smart displays, adding visual cards for weather forecasts and general knowledge answers instead of mostly voice-only replies.
The weather update uses refreshed Material 3 layouts with hour-by-hour and day-by-day containers, extending Google's recent push to show more visual information and media browsing on smart displays.
Gemini also promises more accurate, up-to-date sports responses for scores, schedules and standings, addressing reliability when users ask about live events.
Continued Conversation has been made more reliable as well, reducing mid-conversation voice verification and improving back-to-back commands and follow-up questions such as calendar queries.