Home Automation with Google Assistant

Forums › Gadgets, robotics, home automation, electronics (including wearables) › Home Automation with Google Assistant - Hub device needed

drseuss25

72 posts

Master Geek

#307144 23-Sep-2023 12:23

Ok so i have a smattering of Home devices primarily on Google Assistant but i do also run an Apple household, i just dont like Siri control for anything.
Devices range from Sonos speakers to Google Assistant displays, Network connected devices such as Recievers, Networked Audio Streaming systems, Heatpump via Sensibo, TV's, Skypod etc etc

Many work well with Google Assistant for basic on/off functionality etc but theres still a real gap in control around scenes and of course the integration of certain features that only seem accessible via IR or Bluetooth remotes.
I want to be able to set scenes such as "Watch sport" and have something turn on all the devices and switch to the right inputs and channels etc which may be a mix of network connected functions and IR commands

Ive been looking at IR blaster options etc to integrate such as the Aqara Hub, Broadlink hub etc but i feel like while they may at least solve the command issue, im unsure if they will integrate well enough with the Google control system.

Anyone running anything similar with any advice here?

Seems to be a bit of a blackhole of good info.

fearandloathing

503 posts

Ultimate Geek

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Lifetime subscriber

#3130938 23-Sep-2023 13:01

I’ll be that guy: Home Assistant.

drseuss25

72 posts

Master Geek

#3131003 23-Sep-2023 13:52

Ok... How have i not come across this yet 🤦‍♂️

Ill go do some research...

drseuss25

72 posts

Master Geek

#3131008 23-Sep-2023 13:58

2min into reading up on this and im already sure its probably the right thing but not for a mid level user.

fearandloathing

503 posts

Ultimate Geek

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Lifetime subscriber

#3131025 23-Sep-2023 15:38

drseuss25:
2min into reading up on this and im already sure its probably the right thing but not for a mid level user.

I know why you would think that, but you would be wrong

Start with a simple integration like Sensibo; switching on and off with a schedule

drseuss25

72 posts

Master Geek

#3131591 25-Sep-2023 08:17

fearandloathing: I know why you would think that, but you would be wrong

Start with a simple integration like Sensibo; switching on and off with a schedule

Yeah ok ive done some more reading and watched a few more Videos on the topic now. Def need more research time but seems im gonna have to investigate the Raspberry Pi 4 option.
New projects here i come.

A lot of trial and error coming i imagine

gcorgnet

1078 posts

Uber Geek

#3131596 25-Sep-2023 08:50

Home Assistant has come a long way in the last few years and it now more accessible than ever..
You can even installing on a regular PC if you want to test a few things and play around. Of course, it'll only works when the PC is running and that's why you'd eventually want to use something like a Raspberry Pi but it allows you to test and ensure HA is for you before investing any $$

I remain personally convinced that "Smart hubs" should not be allowed to be called "hubs" as they shouldn't be viewed as such. They usually tie you in with the cloud, with a particular provide and have many limitations. The true powers of HA is bringing all of this together, giving you full control.
If something you have is compatible with HA, it essentially becomes compatible with everything else.

drseuss25

72 posts

Master Geek

#3131612 25-Sep-2023 09:53

Thanks. I might try installing on a PC first as you have mentioned and have a play before going too deep

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richms

28168 posts

Uber Geek

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#3131623 25-Sep-2023 10:39

There is a new self contained home assistant product out now - this one is home assistant green. The preorder on seeed sold out and now says october shipments. Easier than a Pi, although those are now at least quite abundant if not cheap.

Richard rich.ms

drseuss25

72 posts

Master Geek

#3132077 26-Sep-2023 12:43

Ok i bit the bullet and bought a Raspberry Pi 4 starter kit. Setup and all running...managed to find a few ok add ins and is now working with almost all of my devices.
Arlo and Lockly not seeming to link up unfortunately.
Bit annoying that to use actual Google Assistant integration though that i need to pay the yearly subscription so thats a bit of a bummer. Will need to establish if its worth it before going down that route.