Google Home has recently started the wide rollout of its new sharing tools, specifically the Member role feature. This update, which comes with version 3.3 of the app, allows users to invite family members, including children under the age of 13, as well as guests and roommates to manage either specific devices or the entire smart home. Previously, this Member access feature was only available to users participating in the public preview program. Now, Google is extending its availability to all users, as indicated in their latest Nest community update.
The Member role enables users to customize the level of access granted to others. For example, you can control permissions related to viewing device history and decide whether someone can manage your home devices and automations fully. One of the notable enhancements is the ability to grant limited access to children under 13 years old. They can perform basic tasks such as controlling lights, playing music, and unlocking doors.
To enable this feature, the child must be included in your Google Family Group and designated as a Member. By default, their access to view activities and change settings is turned off. In addition, the Google Home app allows you to tailor permissions for everyone else. For partners or individuals you wish to co-manage your home, you can provide them with “Admin” access.
If you prefer to give limited permissions, those users can be added as “Members,” with further options to restrict their access to settings or activity. To add someone as a Member or to manage Admin access, simply select your home in the Google Home app and navigate to Settings, then Household & access, followed by Add and Home member.
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