Google Nest Hub Max Not Responding or Displaying

The Google Nest Hub Max is a 10-inch smart display with camera, Google Assistant, and smart home control capabilities. This guide covers display, voice, and smart home issues.

Display Not Responding

Symptoms

  • Screen black or frozen
  • Touch not registering
  • Device completely unresponsive

Solutions

  1. Power cycle - Unplug for 30 seconds, then plug back in.
  2. Check power adapter - Use only the included power adapter.
  3. Clean screen - Dirt on screen can affect touch response.
  4. Factory reset - Hold both volume buttons for 10 seconds, then follow prompts.
  5. Check for updates - In Google Home app, check device settings for updates.

Google Assistant Not Responding

Symptoms

  • "Hey Google" not activating
  • Commands not understood
  • Long delays in response

Solutions

  1. Check microphone - Ensure mic switch on back isn't set to off.
  2. WiFi connection - Verify Hub Max is connected to WiFi in Google Home app.
  3. Retrain voice - Delete and re-add your Voice Match in Google Home app.
  4. Reduce noise - Background noise may interfere with wake word detection.
  5. Check Google account - Verify account is properly linked in settings.

Camera and Video Issues

Symptoms

  • Camera not streaming
  • Duo calls fail
  • Nest Cam mode not working

Solutions

  1. Camera switch - Check physical camera switch on back isn't disabled.
  2. Privacy settings - In device settings, ensure camera is enabled.
  3. Duo account - For video calls, Google Duo must be set up.
  4. Nest Cam feature - Enable "Use as Nest Cam" in Google Home for security streaming.

Smart Home Control Issues

Symptoms

  • Can't control smart devices
  • Device tiles not showing
  • Voice commands for devices fail

Solutions

  1. Home setup - Hub Max must be assigned to a home in Google Home app.
  2. Device discovery - Say "Hey Google, sync my devices" to refresh.
  3. Room assignment - Assign devices to rooms for easier control.
  4. Third-party links - Verify linked accounts (Philips Hue, SmartThings, etc.) are active.

Thread Border Router

Symptoms

  • Thread devices won't connect
  • Matter pairing fails
  • Thread not showing in Home app

Solutions

  1. Update firmware - Hub Max needs latest software for Thread/Matter support.
  2. Check Thread - In Google Home, Thread network info shows under home settings.
  3. Matter devices - Use Hub Max to pair Matter devices via QR code.
  4. Position - Keep Hub Max centrally located for best Thread mesh coverage.