Google Home enables third-party AI agents to control smart devices

Google has launched an early-access rollout of Home MCP, a new standard that allows third-party AI agents—including Claude, Hermes, and OpenClaw—to interact with and control smart home devices. The rollout began on September 16, 2026, for Google Home Premium Advanced subscribers in the United States.

Connected agents can analyze activity from Nest cameras and doorbells, check device states, and control supported thermostats and Matter-compatible products. Capabilities include summarizing camera footage, querying device history, and generating custom dashboards. While agents can provide audio updates through Google Home speakers, they currently cannot create autonomous automations or remotely unlock doors due to safety restrictions.

The setup process is currently geared toward developers, requiring the creation of a Google Cloud project, enabling the Home API, and configuring OAuth credentials. Google has issued warnings that connecting external agents to a physical home could result in unexpected or undesired behavior.