Gemini Joins AT&T Home Security
Google is bringing Gemini to AT&T Connected Life, making it the first home security service on the Google Home Platform to get the AI assistant. Customers get plain-language descriptions of camera events, a daily Home Brief, camera search, 24/7 recording, and automatic arming and disarming based on proximity to home. AT&T offers wired and battery Nest Cams and Doorbells as add-ons with Essential or Professional monitoring. The move follows Google's May launch of its Gemini for Home partner program.
The Circana Take:
- The rollout shows Google pursuing scale for Gemini through service providers rather than relying solely on its own retail hardware.
- Carrier-bundled security reaches households that may never shop the smart home aisle, but it could also shift camera and doorbell purchases toward subscription channels and away from traditional retail shelves.
SmartThings Puts a Price on Its API
Samsung's new SmartThings developer pricing took effect November 4. Direct cloud API access, used by integrations such as Home Assistant, now requires a paid Developer Plan, announced at $4.99 per month, covering up to 100,000 calls and 10 app installations. Users without a plan can no longer create new API apps, and existing keys will be deactivated December 15. The SmartThings app, routines, local Edge drivers, Matter devices and Works with SmartThings certification remain free.
The Circana Take:
- The change affects a small but influential enthusiast audience whose recommendations shape broader platform perceptions. It also signals that platform owners are looking for new ways to monetize the smart home beyond hardware.