Google Home seems to be on the right track of expanding the ecosystem in order to compete with the likes of Amazon Echo. Until now, Google Home was only able to control Chromecast connected devices with simple voice commands. But starting today, Sony speakers or Android TV sets can also take advantage of Google Home’s voice commands. Users can control music and video streaming without the need for a complicated smart home setup.
In a recent announcement, Sony told that a firmware update is hitting its all “Chromecast built-in” speakers and Android TV-equipped sets adding the missing support for Google’s smart hub and personal assistant.
As reported by Engadget, Sony users can now make use of voice commands like “OK Google, play Spotify on my Sony speaker” to route the audio to desired speakers via Google Home.
Similarly, voice command like “OK Google, play House on cards from Netflix on the TV” will work with all Sony Android TVs like the Bravia lineup or the new 4K HDR panels.
Furthermore, users with multi-room audio setups can make use of Google’s app to group together speakers or even sync the audio across any combination of compatible Chromecast devices
Sony Speakers receiving the Firmware update: List
In case you are interested in knowing whether your device is eligible for the update, we have gathered a list to help you out.
*Speaker Models: SRS-HG1, SRS-ZR5, SRS-ZR7;
*Receiver Models: STR-DN1060, STR-DN1070, STR-DN860;
*Sound Bards: HT-RT5, HT-XT2, HT-CT790, HT-NT5 and HT-ST9;
For those who don’t know, Google Home is a smart speaker developed by Google as part of its “Made By Google” product line. The product stands as a rival to Amazon Echo in the smart speaker industry. It was released on November 4, 2016, for US$129. Following is a video of the same to help you more on the matter:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWiIWyCeZso