Google Home Introduces Admin and Member Access Tiers

Google Home is testing a much-anticipated update that introduces customizable user access tiers, enabling friends, family, and trusted partners to help manage smart home devices (via The Verge).

The feature, currently available to those using the Google Home public preview, aims to provide greater flexibility while maintaining the security and privacy of connected homes.

This enhanced access system introduces two primary roles—Admin and Member—with distinct control levels tailored to suit different user needs.

The new Admin tier is designed for individuals who require full authority over your home’s smart devices and settings. Ideal for trusted family members or co-managers of the household, Admins enjoy a comprehensive set of permissions. Their capabilities include:

• Adding or removing devices and subscriptions linked to the home account.
• Managing other users, including the ability to assign or revoke Admin or Member access.

For users who need more limited controls, the “Member” tier allows household members to interact with Google Home devices while maintaining strong boundaries for privacy and security. Members primarily manage basic controls, including tasks such as:

• Adjusting devices like smart lights, thermostats, and locks.
• Viewing live feeds from security cameras.
• Personalizing their experience through features like voice match and face match with Google Assistant.

To try out the new access system, participants in the Google Home public preview can invite users directly via the Google Home app.

Invited users don’t need to be enrolled in the public preview themselves but must ensure they are using the latest version of the Google Home app to access the feature.