How to Add Apps to Google Nest Hub: A Comprehensive Guide

The Google Nest Hub is a versatile smart display designed to enhance your connected home experience. A common question among users is whether you can add apps to Google Nest Hub to expand its functionality. While the Nest Hub doesn't operate like a smartphone with a traditional app store, it does offer access to a variety of services and features that can be linked and used to customize your experience. This article will explore what you can and cannot do when it comes to apps on the Google Nest Hub, synthesizing information from various sources to provide a comprehensive guide.

Understanding App Availability on Google Nest Hub

The Google Nest Hub doesn't support the direct installation of apps in the same way that a smartphone or tablet does. Instead, it functions as a smart display that integrates with various services through the Google Home app. This means that when you want to "add apps" to your Google Nest Hub, you're generally linking services to your Google account, which can then be accessed via voice commands or through the device's interface.

How to "Add Apps" to Your Google Nest Hub Through Linked Services

The primary method to expand the functionality of your Google Nest Hub is through linking compatible services using the Google Home app. This process involves connecting your accounts for services such as music streaming, video platforms, and smart home controls, allowing you to use them on your device.

Step-by-Step Guide to Linking Services

1. Open the Google Home App: Launch the Google Home app on your smartphone or tablet. This app acts as the control center for all your Google smart home devices.
2. Select Your Nest Hub Device: In the app, choose the specific Nest Hub you want to configure. If you have multiple Google devices, ensure you pick the correct one.
3. Tap the Settings Icon: Look for and select the settings icon, which usually resembles a gear.
4. Choose ‘Works with Google’ or ‘Add Services’: Scroll down the settings menu until you find the ‘Works with Google’ or ‘Add Services’ option.
5. Browse and Link Services: In this section, you'll find a list of compatible services and apps. Select the ones you want to link and follow the on-screen instructions, which generally involve signing into your account for each service and granting permissions.

Once completed, these linked services will be accessible on your Google Nest Hub. You can then use voice commands such as “Hey Google, play my Spotify playlist” to interact with these "added apps."

Available Services and "Apps"

The Google Nest Hub supports a variety of services that enhance its capabilities. These are not traditional apps that you install, but rather integrations you link through the Google Home app. Some popular categories and examples include:

• Music Streaming: Spotify, Pandora, Tidal, YouTube Music
• Video Streaming: YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Amazon Prime Video
• Productivity and Information: Google Calendar, Google Maps, Google Photos
• Smart Home Controls: Compatibility with various smart home brands allows you to control lights, thermostats, and other devices.
• Other Services: Recipe apps and other specialized skills.

Limitations and Misconceptions About Adding Apps to Google Nest Hub

It’s essential to understand that the Google Nest Hub does not operate like a smartphone or tablet. You cannot directly install apps from the Google Play Store or other app stores onto the device. Instead, the available functionality comes from linked services and built-in features.

The idea of an "app launcher" on the Nest Hub has been explored by Google, with testing of a traditional app launcher interface on the Nest Hub Max, but this is not a standard feature that allows installing arbitrary apps. This interface aimed to provide a row of app icons accessible by swiping up from the bottom of the screen, displaying six app icons initially and opening an app drawer with more options when selecting "See all". While this indicates a potential future direction, it doesn't change the current situation regarding the limited functionality of adding arbitrary apps.

Managing Linked Services

You can manage the linked services on your Google Nest Hub through the same "Works with Google" section in the Google Home app. This allows you to:

• Add New Services: Link new services to expand your Nest Hub's functionality.
• Remove Services: Unlink services you no longer wish to use on your device.

To unlink a service:

1. Navigate to the ‘Works with Google’ section in the Google Home app.
2. Select the service you wish to remove.
3. Choose the ‘Unlink Account’ option.
4. Confirm the unlinking.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while trying to link or use services on your Google Nest Hub, consider the following:

• Internet Connection: Ensure that your Nest Hub is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
• Software Updates: Verify that your Google Home app and your Nest Hub are updated to the latest software versions.
• Login Details: Double-check that your login details for each service are correct.
• Compatibility: Not all apps are compatible with the Google Nest Hub, ensure the service you are trying to link is compatible.
• Regional Restrictions: Some services may not be available in your region.

Conclusion

While you cannot add apps to Google Nest Hub in the traditional sense of installing them directly, you can enhance its capabilities by linking various services through the Google Home app. Understanding the difference between traditional app installation and this linked service approach is key to maximizing the potential of your Nest Hub. By leveraging these linked services, you can transform your Google Nest Hub into a powerful hub for entertainment, productivity, and smart home control. Remember to keep your devices updated and explore the various compatible services to find the best configuration for your needs.