Repurpose Your Old Google Home as a YouTube TV Machine
Repurposing an old Google Home device can turn it into a handy YouTube TV machine, especially in the kitchen. Whether you're cooking ribs or multitasking during a game, you can easily say, "Hey Google, watch ESPN2 on YouTube TV," and keep up with the action without touching a remote. The Google Nest Hub's 7-inch screen, with a 1,024-by-600 resolution, may not offer the highest quality, but it works well for quick glances or checking scores. The larger Nest Hub Max, featuring a 10.1-inch screen and 1,280-by-800 resolution, is better suited for longer viewing sessions, like catching up on "Parks and Rec" reruns while prepping dinner.
Both devices support basic YouTube TV commands like "Watch TV," "Louder," "Pause," or "Show me the TV guide." Users can also interact with the touchscreens after washing up. Some have reported issues with YouTube TV not working on Nest Hubs, but upgrading to Gemini for Home can resolve this. Gemini for Home offers a free upgrade with hands-free features.
Beyond the kitchen, Google Home displays offer versatile uses. With Google Cast technology, they support major streaming services like Netflix and Spotify, making them a great secondary screen for financial news or surf videos. The Hub can also function as a digital photo frame, control lights, monitor security cameras, or even act as a baby monitor. Creative users have transformed theirs into shared family albums, ensuring older devices stay useful.