Simple Guide to Google Assistant Routines

Whether you're trying to streamline your morning, wind down your evening, or add automation to everyday tasks, Google Assistant routines can help you create a smarter, more personalized home experience.

In this guide, we'll walk you through what Google Assistant routines are, why they're helpful, and how to create and customize them step by step.

What Are Google Assistant Routines?

Routines are a powerful feature within Google Assistant that allow you to automate multiple actions with a single voice command or at a scheduled time. For example, by saying, “Hey Google, good morning,” you could trigger a series of actions like turning on the lights, adjusting the thermostat, reading the weather, and playing your favorite music or podcast.

Routines can be time-based (automatically triggered at a certain time of day), command-based (activated with a phrase), or device-based (activated by activity on a smart device).

Why Use Google Assistant Routines?

Using routines can:

• Save time by automating daily tasks

• Create a calming, structured environment

• Make your smart home feel more intuitive

• Support healthy habits and productivity

• Help kids and family members stick to daily schedules

Whether you're a busy professional, a parent, or someone looking to simplify life, routines can significantly enhance your experience with smart home devices.

How to Set Up a Google Assistant Routine

Step 1: Open the Google Home App

• Open the Google Home app on your phone.

• Tap on Routines. You’ll find it by tapping your profile photo or settings gear, then navigating to Assistant settings > Routines.

Step 2: Explore Existing Routines or Create a New One

Google provides a few preset routines like “Good Morning,” “Bedtime,” or “I’m Home.” These are fully customizable.

To create your own:

• Tap the “+” button (usually in the bottom right corner).

Step 3: Add a Starter (Trigger)

The Starter is what will begin the routine. You can choose:

• Voice command (e.g., “Hey Google, start my evening”)

• Time and day (e.g., every weekday at 7:00 a.m.)

• Sunrise or sunset

• Device activity (e.g., when you dismiss an alarm or turn off a smart plug)

You can add multiple triggers if you want more flexibility.

Step 4: Add Actions

Now it’s time to tell Google what you want it to do. You can add:

• Smart home controls: Turn on/off lights, adjust thermostats, lock doors

• Media: Play music, news, podcasts, or audiobooks

• Communication: Send texts, read calendar events, share reminders

• Device settings: Adjust phone volume, Do Not Disturb, etc.

• Custom commands: Anything you could say to Google manually

Just tap “Add Action” and choose from the list, or type a custom command.

Step 5: Set a Device for Audio or Announcements (Optional)

If your routine includes music, news, or voice announcements, choose the speaker or display where you want the routine to play.

Step 6: Save Your Routine

After reviewing your routine, tap “Save” at the top right corner.

Popular Routine Ideas

Here are some examples to get inspired:

✅ Morning Routine

Trigger: "Good morning"

Actions: Turn on lights, read weather and calendar, start coffee maker, play news

✅ Bedtime Routine

Trigger: 10:30 p.m. every day

Actions: Dim lights, turn off TV, lock doors, play white noise, set alarm

✅ Kids' Homework Routine

Trigger: 4:00 p.m. weekdays

Actions: Turn on desk lamp, play soft music, disable YouTube on smart display

✅ Away Routine

Trigger: “I’m leaving”

Actions: Turn off all lights, lock doors, lower thermostat, arm security system

✅ Welcome Home Routine

Trigger: “I’m home” or at sunset

Actions: Turn on entry lights, start relaxing music, read reminders

Tips for Better Routines

• Keep it simple at first: Start with 2–3 actions and build from there.

• Label clearly: Use names and voice triggers that are easy to remember.

• Involve family: Create routines that support everyone’s needs (like shared bedtime or dinner prep routines).

• Test them: Run your routine manually the first time to make sure all actions work properly.

Google Assistant routines are one of the best ways to bring automation, comfort, and peace of mind to your home. Whether you want to improve your productivity, support your family's schedule, or simply make your home feel smarter, routines offer the flexibility to do it all—with just one command.

Smart living isn’t about having fancy devices—it’s about creating a lifestyle that works for you. And with Google Assistant routines, you’re in control.

At Naples Smart Home Watch, we believe your home can watch itself. We assess your needs and recommend smart home watch technology that keep an eye on your property while you’re away. Contact us today for a smart home watch solution that fits your need.