Google Home App update brings new features for smart thermostats

The Google Home App version 3.39 is rolling out to iOS and Android users. This update arrives a couple of weeks after its predecessor, version 3.38, which brought improvements linked to smart cameras.

With version 3.39, there are improvements for users of the Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd gen and Nest Thermostat E (curr. $89.99 at Amazon). These older models now fully support schedules for temperature, sensors and fans. Plus, for all Nest Thermostats, Google indicates that it should now be easier to view the heating or cooling status in the Home app. The company says it has used “more vibrant colors” and “updated descriptions” to enhance the user experience.

On top of this, the energy dashboard has been improved. There are separate totals for heating and cooling, and users can view energy usage by stage or heating type. Plus, you can view a year-on-year comparison of energy usage. Another new feature is support for the Home & Away status to be triggered by your mobile device as it connects or disconnects from your chosen Wi-Fi network.

The release notes also list three bug fixes. These tackle issues for iPad users, where the Google Home App could freeze, as well as misaligned video and passcode errors for iOS users. You can download the latest version of the Google Home App from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.