Why can't I start audio on another device?

[areddin]

I use my phone to control my smart speaker and keep the mic muted. I want to be able to play sleep sounds to help get my kids to bed. Before the app interface changed, I could choose which device to run my routine on. Now, the options are greyed out and I can only play sounds on my phone (since I am triggering it by starting the routine). Why was this functionality removed? I don't want to talk to my speaker, ever. I just want to click the routine on my phone.

[Muddi]

Hey areddin,

Thanks for sharing details about the issue here. I know the feeling when you can't assign a specific device to run your routines. Let's dig deeper into this. When did the issue start? What is the Google Home app version on your phone? What is the make and model of your phone? How many accounts are linked on the Google Home app? Have you tried using a different phone/tablet to check if you will have the same issues? Also, what are the steps that you've tried?

As an alternative, I recommend adding a custom action to play music on a specific device (e.g., play music on living room speaker). You can easily do this by selecting the "Try adding your own" option.

Looking forward to your response.

Cheers,

Muddi

[Muddi]

Hi there,

I just wanted to check, do you have additional concerns or questions about your device?
 

Cheers,

Muddi

[areddin]

Hi, and thanks for your reply. I tried adding a routine that includes a specific device (e.g. play babbling brook sounds on bedroom speaker), but that doesn't work either. 

I found a successful workaround was to add a start time, which then let's me choose the output device. Then I can activate the routine whenever I want. If I don't want it to come on at the normal time, I just have to disable the routine. 

It's a bit of an awkward solution, but at least it works for now.

[Muddi]

Hey areddin,

Thanks for trying. I appreciate you sharing the workaround here. I was able to replicate the issue on my end, and I already discussed it with our higher tier support team. We'd love to know more about the issue. Please fill out this form with all the needed information, and then let me know once you're done.

Cheers,

Muddi

[areddin]

Thanks, but I can't find the form to fill out.

[Kimy]

Hi areddin,

I’m sorry about that. Here’s the form, and let us know once you’re done.

Thanks,

Kimy

[areddin]

Okay, thanks. I just filled out the form. 

[Princesss]

Hi areddin,

Thanks — we got your form and we've escalated it over to our higher level of support for further review. Please keep an eye on your inbox as someone will get back in touch with you soon. 
 

Best,

Princess

[Princesss]

Hi areddin,

I've seen that you have been assisted via email. I'll consider this post as complete and will lock the thread now.

Best,

Princess