Yes, Google Home Assistant supports webhooks through third-party tools like IFTTT (If This Then That) and automation platforms like Home Assistant.

While Google Assistant doesn’t natively handle webhooks, it can trigger webhook URLs indirectly, enabling integrations with custom services, APIs, and DIY smart home projects.

Webhooks allow Google Assistant to send commands to other applications or devices by making HTTP requests, creating a flexible way to automate workflows.

What Are Webhooks?

Webhooks are HTTP-based callbacks that allow one system to send data to another in real time. In the context of Google Home Assistant, webhooks enable communication with external services, like controlling smart devices or triggering custom automations through web servers or APIs.

Step 1: Use IFTTT to Trigger Webhooks

IFTTT (If This Then That) is the simplest way to link Google Assistant with webhooks.

How to Set Up IFTTT with Webhooks:

1. Create an IFTTT Account:
   • Sign up at ifttt.com and log in.
2. Create an IFTTT Applet:
   • Go to Create > If This > Add Trigger.
3. Select Google Assistant as Trigger:
   • Choose “Google Assistant” as the trigger.
   • Example: “Say a simple phrase” or “Say a phrase with a text ingredient.”
   • Example Command: “Hey Google, turn on the fan.”
4. Add Webhooks as the Action:
   • Select “Webhooks” under Then That.
   • Choose Make a web request.
5. Configure the Web Request:
   • Enter the following details:
     • URL: The webhook endpoint (e.g., http://example.com/webhook).
     • Method: Choose POST or GET based on the webhook requirements.
     • Content Type: Use application/json or application/x-www-form-urlencoded.
     • Body: Send the required data as JSON. { "command": "ON", "device": "fan" }
6. Save and Test:
   • Use the trigger phrase: “Hey Google, turn on the fan.”
   • IFTTT will send the HTTP request to the specified webhook URL.

Also Read: How to Use Node-RED with Google Home Assistant

Step 2: Integrate Webhooks with Home Assistant

If you’re using the open-source Home Assistant platform, you can set up webhooks to trigger automations and control devices.

Steps to Set Up Webhooks in Home Assistant:

1. Enable Webhooks:
   • In Home Assistant, go to Automations & Scenes.
   • Create a new automation and set Webhook as the trigger.
2. Configure the Webhook Trigger:
   • Add a webhook ID (e.g., fan_control).
   Example YAML Configuration: automation: - alias: "Control Fan via Webhook" trigger: - platform: webhook webhook_id: fan_control action: - service: fan.turn_on entity_id: fan.living_room
3. Generate the Webhook URL:
   • The URL will look like this: https://<Your_Home_Assistant_URL>/api/webhook/fan_control
4. Link with Google Assistant via IFTTT:
   • Use the webhook URL in an IFTTT action as described above.
   • Say: “Hey Google, turn on the fan.”
   • Google Assistant will send a request to the webhook, triggering the action in Home Assistant.

Step 3: Direct Webhook Integration with APIs

For advanced users, you can configure webhook endpoints on your own server or services and trigger them using Google Assistant routines or IFTTT.

Example Use Case: Turn on a Custom IoT Device

1. Create a Webhook Endpoint:
   • Host a simple API server (e.g., using Flask or Node.js) to accept HTTP requests.
   Example Flask Server Code: from flask import Flask, request app = Flask(__name__) @app.route('/webhook', methods=['POST']) def control_device(): data = request.json if data['command'] == "ON": print("Device turned ON") return "Success", 200 if __name__ == '__main__': app.run(debug=True, port=5000)
2. Set Up IFTTT or Google Home Routine:
   • Use the webhook endpoint http://<Your_Server_IP>:5000/webhook in IFTTT or other services.
3. Trigger the Webhook:
   • Say: “Hey Google, activate the device.”
   • The request will reach the server and execute the required task.

Step 4: Use Google Assistant Routines for Webhooks

Google Home Routines can integrate webhooks indirectly by pairing with IFTTT or other middleware platforms.

Steps to Set Up:

1. Open the Google Home App.
2. Go to Routines > + Add a Routine.
3. Add a Trigger:
   • Example: “Hey Google, good morning.”
4. Add Actions:
   • Use IFTTT to send a webhook request to your server or system.

Also Read: How to Configure Custom APIs for Google Home Assistant

Example Routine:

• Trigger: “Hey Google, start my morning.”
• Action: IFTTT sends a webhook to turn on lights, open blinds, or start a coffee maker.

Quick FAQs

1. Does Google Home Assistant Natively Support Webhooks?
No, Google Assistant doesn’t natively support webhooks, but it can trigger webhooks via IFTTT or Home Assistant.

2. What Can I Use Webhooks For?
Webhooks can control IoT devices, trigger custom APIs, send notifications, or automate DIY projects.

3. How Do I Trigger Webhooks with Google Assistant?
Use IFTTT as a bridge, where Google Assistant sends a webhook request when you issue a voice command.

4. Can I Use Google Assistant to Control Home Assistant with Webhooks?
Yes, Home Assistant supports webhooks that can be triggered through Google Assistant voice commands.

5. Are Webhooks Secure?
For security, ensure webhooks are only accessible through HTTPS and use tokens or authentication.

Also Read: How to Set Up Advanced Automations with Google Home Assistant

Conclusion

Google Home Assistant supports webhooks indirectly by using platforms like IFTTT and Home Assistant. By configuring webhook endpoints and linking them to Google Assistant commands, you can control IoT devices, trigger custom scripts, and automate workflows effortlessly. Whether you’re managing smart home projects, APIs, or DIY solutions, webhooks provide a flexible and powerful way to expand the capabilities of Google Home Assistant.