Your Google TV can now control smart home devices.
The new Google TV update transforms the device into a control center to manage all your smart home devices, in addition to serving as an entertainment system.
Google has recently introduced a new feature for Google TV called Home Panel, designed to make it easier to control smart devices from a single location. This option was initially presented on the Google TV Streamer and later expanded to Chromecast, and it has finally arrived on other Google TV devices from brands like Hisense and TCL.
The Home Panel provides various useful functionalities, such as displaying the current brightness level of lights, the volume of speakers, and live feeds from security cameras. A demonstration video reveals that it's also possible to adjust the thermostat temperature using the remote control, allowing users to stay seated without the need to get up.
When this feature is activated on the Google TV Streamer, users have several settings available at their disposal. Although the Google Home app offers more functions, the Home Panel is considered a valuable addition that is more intuitive than using a mobile app. For those who do not yet have access to this feature, it is recommended to check the Quick Settings panel by holding down the home button and ensuring that the Google TV software is up to date. If the Home Panel still does not appear, the update may be in progress.
In addition to facilitating the control of smart devices, this update allows for changing the screensaver, creating AI-generated backgrounds, and keeping track of favorite sports teams. It is expected that in the future, this Home Panel will be available on all Google TV and Chromecast platforms.
