The Google TV Streamer also brings some new features to Google TV, most notably the new Google Home panel. Although the device and this new feature won’t be available for a few weeks, we had the chance to test it in action.

The Google Home panel in Google TV is located in the platform’s existing quick settings panel, which is accessible from the home screen by tapping the Settings/Notifications shortcut on the far right of the top row or by long-pressing the Home button. From there, a new “Google Home” shortcut will appear alongside the Wi-Fi toggle, audio output toggle, and the rest of the quick settings selection.

Tapping this icon will open the Google Home window, but there is another option.

With the new remote control that comes with the Google TV streamer, you can assign the “Magic” button marked with a star to open the Google Home panel directly.

Once opened, the Google Home panel on the TV should look just like the Favorites tab of the Google Home app on your phone, and that’s because it has the same layout. Changes to the Favorites tab will sync to the TV’s panel, just like the Wear OS app and the Google Pixel’s version of the Home panel that works on the lock screen.

This means there are virtually no limits to the customization options you can achieve.

You can add lights, cameras, plugs, Nest thermostats and more to this panel and use them all with your remote. At the top, a series of device type sections allows access to more options. You can access any camera, any HVAC unit, any lights and also your Google/Nest Wi-Fi if you have one. However, you cannot access every device in your home unless You add it to this favorites section.

Google says it’s “actively” exploring whether the Home panel will be available on other Google TV devices, like Chromecast, but it will definitely be a handy option no matter where it’s available.

The Google TV streamer is available for pre-order now from the Google Store, Best Buy and Amazon for $99 and will ship later in September.

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