Google Home routines bundle several actions behind one trigger. A single phrase, time, location event, or device state can turn on lights, adjust the thermostat, start music, and make Assistant speak.
These steps apply to the Google Home app on iPhone and Android with Nest speakers, displays, and Google Assistant-compatible devices.
Does this affect you?
Use this if you want one command or schedule to control several smart-home actions instead of tapping each device separately.
Create a routine from a template
Templates are the fastest way to start because Google includes common routines such as Good morning, Leaving home, and Bedtime.
- Open the Google Home app.
- Tap the + icon.
- Choose Set up a routine or Routines.
- Select a starter routine close to what you want.
- Review the Starters section.
- Edit the voice phrase, time, location, or default trigger if needed.
- Under Actions, tap Add action.
- Choose lights, plugs, thermostat settings, music, announcements, or other actions.
- Tap Save.
- Test the routine by saying the trigger phrase or tapping it in the app.
If a template mostly fits, customize it instead of building from a blank screen.
Build a custom routine from scratch
- Open Google Home.
- Tap + > Set up a routine.
- Tap New routine.
- Under Starters, tap Add starter.
- Choose Voice for a phrase such as Movie time.
- Choose Scheduled for a time, sunrise, or sunset.
- Choose Location for arrival or departure if available.
- Choose Device state for a sensor or supported device trigger.
- Under Actions, add each smart-home or Assistant action.
- Name the routine clearly.
- Tap Save.
A single device can appear in more than one routine. That is normal, but be careful with routines that issue conflicting commands at nearly the same time.
Manage and troubleshoot routines
Routines are usually tied to your Google account. If other household members should be able to trigger a voice routine, check the starter settings and avoid restricting it to only your voice.
To pause a routine, open it and use the toggle at the top. This keeps the setup saved so you can turn it back on later.
If a routine does not fire, check whether every device in Actions is online. Also rename trigger phrases that overlap with built-in Assistant commands. For more advanced logic, such as only after sunset or only if someone is home, use Automations and conditions where available.
Sources
- Google Nest Help – Create and edit routines in the Google Home app (2025)
- Google Nest Help – Set up your Google Assistant to work with smart devices (2025)
- Google Store – Get more out of your Google Home routines (2025)