Google has introduced a new way to manage smart home access in the latest update to the Google Home app. With version 3.33, a new Member role is now available, giving users more control over who can do what in their smart home.
Previously, when you invited someone to your Google Home, they were given Admin access by default. That meant they could make major changes like adding or removing devices, linking subscriptions, and even deleting the entire home. For many households, this was more control than necessary — especially for guests, roommates, or kids.
Now, you can choose between Admin and Member access. Admins still get full control of the home. But if you select the new Member role, you can customize exactly what that person can do. Members can use devices like lights, music speakers, smart locks, and thermostats, but you decide if they can go further.
There are two permission toggles you can enable for Members. The first is for "Settings" access, which lets them manage device configurations and home-wide features like automations or Nest Wifi. The second is for "Activity" access, which allows them to see history from cameras, locks, and presence sensors. If neither option is enabled, Members still get basic control of devices but won’t be able to make changes or view logs.
You can now drill down on permissions for device management in the Google Home app. | Image credit — Google
This update also allows kids under 13 to use the Google Home app for the first time. As long as they’re part of your Google family group, they can now be added as Members. That gives them the ability to do things like turn on lights or unlock the door after school, all without access to sensitive settings or history.
Both Admins and Members can use features tied to their personal Google accounts, such as Voice Match and shared media services. However, only Admins can manage other users, link subscriptions, or change high-level settings.
The Member role originally appeared in Public Preview back in December 2024. With its full rollout, it’s now available to everyone using the latest version of the Google Home app.
This change might seem small, but it addresses a long-standing issue with smart home sharing: how to give people access without giving them too much power. Whether you're managing a household with kids, roommates, or frequent visitors, the new Member role offers a flexible and safer way to share your devices without losing control.
Grab Surfshark VPN now at more than 50% off and with 3 extra months for free!
Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and former member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.
A discussion is a place, where people can voice their opinion, no matter if it
is positive, neutral or negative. However, when posting, one must stay true to the topic, and not just share some
random thoughts, which are not directly related to the matter.
Things that are NOT allowed:
Off-topic talk - you must stick to the subject of discussion
Offensive, hate speech - if you want to say something, say it politely
Spam/Advertisements - these posts are deleted
Multiple accounts - one person can have only one account
Impersonations and offensive nicknames - these accounts get banned
To help keep our community safe and free from spam, we apply temporary limits to newly created accounts:
New accounts created within the last 24 hours may experience restrictions on how frequently they can
post or comment.
These limits are in place as a precaution and will automatically lift.
Moderation is done by humans. We try to be as objective as possible and moderate with zero bias. If you think a
post should be moderated - please, report it.
Have a question about the rules or why you have been moderated/limited/banned? Please,
contact us.
FCC OKs Cingular\'s purchase of AT&T Wireless
Things that are NOT allowed:
To help keep our community safe and free from spam, we apply temporary limits to newly created accounts: