Why can I no longer manage my Google Home devices outside of my WiFi network?

[SieraZ]

Hello,

I seem to no longer have the ability to control some of my devices in Google Home if I am not connected to my home WiFi network. This includes any Nest, Chromecast or Camera devices. I just get a message saying "Not available" and that I have to be on the same WiFi network now, whereas before I used to be able to do it from elsewhere connected via a mobile network. For example, I used to be able to view and upload photos to my Nest Hub, change Nest speaker and Android TV settings or view the camera feeds. I also used to get notifications of any Nest speakers playing music when I was away from home.

I have changed my phone recently a few times, but I am signed in to the same Google account (admin) everywhere and can still control lights and switches.

[GeremiG]

Hi @SieraZ!

Thank you for posting in the community. I understand that you would like to control some devices in the Google Home app while not connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and you get the message 'Not available.' I'm happy to help you! 

These devices often handle more sensitive information, like live camera feeds or personal photos on your Google Nest Hub. Requiring you to be on the same secure local network when making changes adds an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access. This ensures that someone outside your home network can't tamper with critical settings or view private content.

If you have any questions or need additional help, please don't hesitate to let us know.

Best regards,
Geremi

[SieraZ]

Hi @GeremiG. Thanks for responding. So, is this a recent change? I'd been able to change these settings and see the camera feeds on an external network a few months ago. Why has this been changed?

[Raeeeeeee]

I used to be able to control my Google Home speakers when I was away (for example, to start and stop music for my pets), but I no longer can.