Google fixes smart speakers that say 'I didn't understand' on their own

Google has released an update for Gemini for Home that should stop some Google Home and Nest speakers and displays from speaking up on their own. Some devices would suddenly say "Sorry, I didn't understand" when no one had asked anything. Google says that bug should now be fixed.

What changed

Gemini is Google's AI assistant, and it now runs on Google Home devices. This is the second Gemini for Home update of October. The notes list six changes for Gemini inside the Google Home app. Three stand out:

• Speakers and displays no longer blurt out "I didn't understand" unprompted.
• Gemini should correctly handle requests to move music from one room to another.
• Gemini should change the right kind of timer: sleep, media or regular.

The notes also include a couple of smaller adjustments. They are meant to make everyday use less annoying.

Who it affects and what is next

Anyone with a Google Home or Nest speaker or display that uses Gemini could see the difference. That matters most for people who use voice commands for music in several rooms or for timers.

Google says the update is live starting today, but it may take time to reach everyone. The material does not say exactly how long that will take. It also does not explain what caused the random messages or describe the smaller changes. If your speaker still acts up for now, the fix may simply not have arrived yet.