Google home introduces new features, gives more control to family and friends
Google Home app version 3.33 brings a game-changing update: the introduction of a new 'Member' role. Until now, sharing your smart home meant handing over near-total access. Not any more.=
With this update, you can invite others as Admins (full access) or Members (limited access). Members get precisely the permissions you choose, like:
Activity access: View device logs or home history, such as Wi-Fi usage or camera footage.
Settings access: Manage specific devices, automations, or preferences without control over the whole home.
This lets you share control without giving away the keys to everything.
In a first, children under 13 (or the local minimum age) can be added as Members, if they're part of your Google family group. Kids can do simple things like play music, adjust lights, or unlock doors (within limits). They can't remove devices or change critical settings.
This is especially useful for working parents or families with kids returning home before adults, convenient, but with tight guardrails.
Here's a breakdown of what each role can access:
Permission
Admin
Member (Settings)
Member (Activity) Add/remove people Yes No No Delete home Yes No No Add/remove devices Yes No No Manage automations/settings Yes Yes No View device/home history Yes No Yes Control devices (e.g., lights) Yes Yes Yes
Admins can assign both Settings and Activity access to a Member—or just one, depending on what's needed.
This update brings real flexibility to smart homes: Share light and music controls with trusted guests—without giving them camera access.
Let kids unlock the door after school without touching home security settings.
Roommates can fine-tune their automations without being able to remove your devices.
The bottom line: you stay in control, but others can contribute meaningfully to the home experience.
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