Last week we discussed that Google was preparing the ability for users to change the device type of a Smart Switch to match the kind of device that was being controlled. Now the feature is live on Android and it’s kinda cool.
What’s the benefit you ask? By allowing you to set the device type of a smart plug you gain the ability to control them using natural language. For instance, if you had 5 lamps plugged in via smart plugs they would not previously have been seen as lights and a command like turn off all lights wouldn’t change the state for those lamps.
The device icon for the plug also changes to match the device type, but is not yet included in any drop downs for that device type. So how do you change device types? Open the Google Home app and select the plug you want to change. Tap on the settings cog and then change the device type to one of 10 different options current available:
- Air Conditioner
- Coffee Maker
- Dehumidifier
- Fan
- Heater
- Humidifier
- Kettle
- Light
- TV
- Outlet
Of course this doesn’t imbue the Smart Plug with additional smart features, it can still only turn on and off. If you’ve got some smart switches with a compatible device plugged in, why not set them up!
