You can connect your Android device to a Thread network that allows you to control Matter-supported devices. With Thread, your Android device can connect to a dedicated mesh network for your smart home devices. They can communicate directly with each other for faster response times, greater range, and improved reliability.
Discover how Thread works on your Android device
When you connect your Android device to the Thread network in your home, a credential is created. To simplify the setup of new devices and make a backup, Google stores the credentials securely in your Google Account.
To secure communication between authorized devices, Thread credentials act like a unique key that unlocks your smart home network. This enables seamless integration with other Google Home devices and creates a more unified smart home experience.
Learn about Thread border routers
You can connect your other devices on Wi-Fi or Ethernet to your Thread network through a Thread border router. This ensures they all communicate as one for Google Home.
The following Google devices can act as a Thread border router for Google Home:
- Displays: Nest Hub 2nd gen, Nest Hub Max
- Wi-Fi routers: Nest Wifi Pro (Wi-Fi 6E)
- Streaming devices: Google TV Streamer (4K)
Tip: Your Android device can join an existing Thread network even if you don't have a dedicated Thread border router at home.
Turn Thread on or off on your Android device
To connect your Android device to a Thread network:
- Open your device’s Settings app.
- Tap Connected devices
Connection preferences
- Turn Use Thread on or off.
Connection preferences - When you turn off Thread, your device leaves the Thread network and can’t control some Matter-over-Thread devices.
- When you turn off Thread, some of your smart home devices may lose connection or functionality.
- When you turn off Thread, Thread credentials stored in your Google Account are retained.
Troubleshoot Thread issues
If your device doesn’t connect
- Confirm that the device you want to connect to supports Thread.
- Make sure you turn on Thread in your Android device settings.
- If you have other Thread border routers, like Nest Wifi Pro or Nest Hub, verify that it’s on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Restart your Android device and the Thread border router.