Google Home Mini failing to setup after resetting due to issue

[Savin]

Hi,

A while back, my Google Mini would always say an error has occurred when trying to prompt it. So I decided to reset it by using the red button on the base. However, now I can’t even get it setup! No matter what I try, my phone is unable to find the Google Mini. I’ve reset it multiple times already. Help would be appreciated. 

Thanks,

Savin

[Unhappy718]

Same here

[Rwiinbo]

Hi! Sometimes it is difficult to activate your device again. When this happens, pause for a moment, as repeatedly trying to activate it can prevent proper recognition. If a device linked to an account hasn't been used for a long time, it needs reactivation. To do this, first use the Utility app from Google. Once downloaded, follow these steps:

- Restart your phone to prevent any cached data from interfering with proper configuration. You can also restart your router if you wish.

- Disconnect your device from its power source for a moment.

-Perform a proper factory reset by following the steps in this link:

Factory Reset Home Speakers

-Turn on your phone and download the Utility app. Ensure your Google Home app is updated to the latest firmware.

-First, open the Utility app and follow the steps to authenticate your account. This process will be similar to the initial setup.

-Once activated in the Utility app, go to the Google Home app without disconnecting the device and complete the setup normally. Your device should then work correctly.

Please be aware that support for the first version of the Google Home Mini has been discontinued, so be patient if you have that model. I hope this helps!

[Savin]

Thanks, I will try tomorrow and give you an update.

[Savin]

Hi, 

I can’t find he utility app on the Google Play store, but found an APK file for it on APK Mirror. When downloading however, Google said the file could be harmful. Is this app really the only way to fix my Google Nest Mini? If there are other ways, please let me know.

[Rwiinbo]

Try with this link:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.wifisetup.app&hl=en_US

[Savin]

It says I can’t download the app because it was made for an older version of Android. I have an S23 FE updated to the latest version.

[Rwiinbo]

The latest version available on the Google Play Store should be the most compatible, but in this case, it is not. However, there have been widespread reports of compatibility issues with newer Android versions (13, 14, and even 15) on Pixel phones. Users often receive a message stating that the app is incompatible, similar to the example you provided for the Galaxy S23 FE.

- Using a non-Pixel Android device or an iOS device: Some people have found success using older Android phones or Samsung devices.

- Side loading an older version of the Device Utility app: As you indicated before, some people have reported success side loading specific older versions of the Device Utility app (usually from APKMirror). However, this is not officially recommended and carries potential security risks. A version mentioned by some people as working is 2.0.0.2-2.

-Using an older version of the Google Home app: In some cases, side loading an older version of the Google Home app (from 2022 or 2023) has helped people bypass the need for the Device Utility app during setup.

It's important to be cautious when sideloading APKs from unofficial sources, as they may contain malware. If you choose to do so, use a reputable source like APKMirror and ensure your device's security settings are appropriately configured afterward.

In short, since Google doesn't seem to facilitate activating older devices with newer phone versions, it's recommended that you simply borrow an old phone for the activation process, as nothing else is typically required afterward.

[virnab]

HI Savin,

I understand you decided to reset your Google Home Mini by pressing the red button on the base after it displayed an error message when you attempted to prompt it, and now you're having troubles setting it up. No worries, help is here.

Thank you Rwiinbo for your contribution on this thread.

Before I start further troubleshooting, let me ask you a few questions:

• What happens after pressing and holding the factory reset button of the Google Home Mini? 
• Did you hear the factory reset sound confirmation?
• Is your Google Home app updated?
• How far from your mobile device is the Google Home Mini when you try to set it up?
• Is your mobile device connected to the same WiFi network you want to connect to your Google Mini?
• What is the distance between your Google Home Mini and the router?
• Is your Google Home Mini connected to a 2.4 or 5 GHz WiFi network?
• Can you describe the status of the 4 LED lights? 
• Have there been any recent changes to your environment, such as a change in WiFi network or recent outages? 

Please keep me posted.

Best regards,

Virna

[Savin]

Hi,

So the problem randomly just decided to fix itself. I don’t know what happened, but randomly I could just set it up normally. Thank you all for trying to help, I really appreciate it!

[Savin]

However, this problem might start again. If it does, I’ll respond here or create a new forum.

[virnab]

Hi Savin,

I’m happy to know that you could set up your Google Home Mini. I really appreciate your valuable contribution with this information.

If you need further assistance, please feel free to contact us whenever you need it.

Best regards,

Virna