It is already cool that you can control your appliances through your smartphone, even when you’re not home. But wouldn’t it be cooler if you can just speak to them to do so? While we’re not completely there yet, Google and Nest Labs have taken a step forward by integrating Google Now and the Nest Learning Thermostat, letting you change the room temperature using just your voice.
The new Google Now integration actually comes in two new features. The first is the most obvious one. You can use that now iconic “OK, Google” phrase to start setting up your desired warmth or cold. There are a ton of phrases that can be used with this, ranging from a more direct “change the temperature to” to a more informal “raise/lower the temp to”.
The second feature isn’t voice-related at all and comes via Google Now cards. As with other cards that show your relevant information in a timely manner, Google Now will also hand out cards whenever the Nest Learning Thermostat is changing a setting or switching to another pre-programmed preset.
The new features are completely optional and you’d actually have to turn them on before you can even start using them. One good news about it is that it is tied to Google Now and not Android, meaning that it would work just as well on an iOS device with the Google Search app installed.
VIA: Android Police
