How to Call Google Home from an iPhone: A Comprehensive Guide

Calling your Google Home smart speaker from your iPhone might seem like navigating a labyrinth, but fear not! The process is actually quite straightforward, requiring a specific app and a little configuration. You’ll use the Google Home app on your iPhone to initiate the call, ensuring both devices are linked to the same Google account, and that your Google Home device is configured to receive calls.

Making the Connection: Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a breakdown of how to directly call a Google Home device from your iPhone:

1. Download and Install the Google Home App: Head to the App Store on your iPhone and download the official Google Home app. This is your command center for all things Google Home related.

2. Sign In With Your Google Account: Open the Google Home app and sign in using the same Google account that’s linked to your Google Home device. This ensures that your phone and speaker are on the same network.

3. Locate Your Google Home Device: Once logged in, the app will display all the Google Home devices connected to your network. Find the specific device you want to call.

4. Initiate the Call: Tap on the selected Google Home device in the app. Look for a button or option labeled “Call” or “Audio Call”. The wording may vary slightly depending on app updates. Tap this option.

5. Grant Microphone Access: The first time you use the calling feature, the Google Home app will likely request access to your iPhone’s microphone. Grant this permission so the app can transmit your voice during the call.

6. Start Talking!: Once the call is initiated, your voice will be broadcast through the Google Home speaker. You can speak as if you were on a regular phone call.

Alternative Method: Using Google Assistant

While directly calling from the Google Home app is the primary method, there’s another avenue utilizing the Google Assistant app:

1. Download and Install Google Assistant: If you haven’t already, download the Google Assistant app from the App Store.

2. Sign In With Your Google Account: Ensure you’re logged into the Google Assistant app using the same Google account as your Google Home device and the Google Home app.

3. Use Voice Commands: Activate Google Assistant by saying “Hey Google” or pressing the microphone icon. Then, use a command like “Call [Device Name] on Google Home” where “[Device Name]” is the name you’ve assigned to your Google Home device in the Google Home app.

4. Follow Prompts: Google Assistant will then initiate the call to your specified Google Home device.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go according to plan. Here are some common hurdles and how to overcome them:

• Connectivity Issues: Make sure both your iPhone and Google Home are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and that the network is stable. A weak Wi-Fi signal can disrupt the call.
• App Permissions: Double-check that the Google Home app has permission to access your microphone in your iPhone’s settings. Go to Settings > Privacy > Microphone and ensure the toggle is switched on for the Google Home app.
• Outdated Software: Ensure that both the Google Home app and the firmware on your Google Home device are up to date. Outdated software can lead to compatibility issues.
• Google Account Problems: Verify that you’re logged into the correct Google account on both your iPhone and your Google Home device. Conflicting accounts can prevent the devices from communicating.
• Device Not Found: If the Google Home app can’t find your device, try restarting your Google Home. Unplug it from the power outlet, wait a few seconds, and plug it back in.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Here are some common questions that users ask about calling Google Home from an iPhone:

1. Can I call any phone number from my Google Home using my iPhone?

No, the methods described above only allow you to call your Google Home device itself. To call phone numbers, you would typically need to use Google Voice and link it to your Google Home account.

2. Is there a charge for calling Google Home from my iPhone?

No, calling your Google Home device using the Google Home app is free. It uses your Wi-Fi network for the connection. However, data charges may apply if you’re not on Wi-Fi.

3. Can I answer a Google Home call on my iPhone?

No, you cannot answer a call on your iPhone if someone calls to your Google Home. Google Home itself will ring, and the person near the device needs to answer the call from the device. You can, however, initiate calls to Google Home from your iPhone.

4. How do I change the name of my Google Home device?

Open the Google Home app, select your device, tap the settings icon (usually a gear), and look for the “Name” option.

5. Can I call multiple Google Home devices at once from my iPhone?

Yes, you can create a group of Google Home devices within the Google Home app and then call that group. This will broadcast your voice to all the devices in the group simultaneously.

6. Why is my Google Home not showing up in the Google Home app?

Ensure your Google Home is powered on, connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your iPhone, and linked to the same Google account. Try restarting both your Google Home device and your iPhone.

7. Does the person near the Google Home device need a Google account to receive the call?

No, the person near the Google Home device doesn’t need a Google account to receive the call. They simply need to be within hearing distance of the device.

8. Can I use Bluetooth to connect my iPhone to Google Home for calling?

No, the calling functionality primarily relies on a Wi-Fi connection through the Google Home app. Bluetooth is generally used for playing music or other audio from your iPhone to the Google Home device.

9. How can I improve the audio quality during a call?

Ensure both your iPhone and Google Home device have a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection. Reduce any background noise on both ends of the call. You can also try moving closer to the Google Home device while speaking.

10. Can I call Google Home while my iPhone is locked?

Yes, you can initiate the call to Google Home from your iPhone while it is locked using Google Assistant. When using the Google Home App the App has to be open and you’ll need to manually tap the “Call” button.

11. Is it possible to block calls to my Google Home device from specific iPhones?

You cannot directly block calls from specific iPhones. However, you can disable the “Let others control your cast media” setting in the Google Home app. This will prevent unauthorized users from casting content, including initiating calls, to your Google Home device.

12. What if I forgot the Google account linked to my Google Home?

You’ll need to factory reset your Google Home device and set it up again with the desired Google account. To factory reset, press and hold the reset button (location varies depending on the specific Google Home model) for about 15 seconds.

By following this guide, you should be well-equipped to seamlessly call your Google Home from your iPhone. Enjoy the convenience of staying connected with your smart home!