How to Create and Use Google Home Routines
Use the Google Home app to quickly create Routines that adjust settings in your whole-house audio system. Routines are found under the Automations tab and can be executed with a “Hey Google” voice command, a schedule, or a triggered event.
Some examples:
Simplify a Voice Command: Change "Hey Google, set the kitchen to Sonos at volume 30%" to something easier to remember, like "Hey Google, play Sonos in the kitchen."
Add to an Existing Voice Command: “Hey Google, good morning.” This voice command might already include instructions for your thermostat, lighting, and security system; now it can also include commands for your audio zones.
Create a Schedule: Create a schedule that automatically impacts your audio settings, e.g. turns off all audio zones at a set time of day, or automatically bumps up the volume on the weekend.
Set up a Triggered Event: Have other smart devices initiate commands to your home audio system, e.g. have all zones (or specific zones) mute whenever someone presses your Nest doorbell, and unmute after an amount of time you specify.
When this . . . Do this
Setting up Automations in the Google Home app follows a logical process of "when this happens" then "Google Home will do this." In the "Automations" section, tap on “+ Add” and then select the type of Routine you want to add. Use a “Household” routine where other members of the house can edit the routine, or a "Personal" routine, where only you can edit. With either type, anyone can initiate the Routine by speaking to a Google Home device.
Follow these steps to simplify a voice command:
- From the Google Home app home page, click the "Automations" tab at the bottom of the page and tap "+ Add".
- Select the type of Routine.
- Choose your “Starter” by tapping “Add Starter” and select “When I say to Google Assistant”.
- Enter what you want to say, such as "set Kitchen to Sonos" and click "add starter".
- Under "Actions”, click "Add action" and select "Adjust Home Devices".
- Select the device(s) you want to include and select the power state, volume, input, mute/unmute state. Click "Add action"
- Press "Save"
