Google's smart displays just got smarter: Owners of the Google Nest Hub and Google Nest Hub Max can now stream Netflix to their smart displays thanks to a new arrangement between the search giant and the best streaming service. can now stream Netflix to their smart displays thanks to a new arrangement between the search giant and the best streaming service.

To watch Netflix on the Nest Hub or Nest Hub Max, simply open the Google Home or Google Assistant app on your smartphone and link your Netflix account. Then either voice search ("Hey Google, play West Wing") or have Google open the Netflix app on your smart display and scroll through the results.

As with other audio and video content, you can tell Google to pause, forward, and rewind Netflix content by voice, or stop and resume by hand gestures. [These devices can also stream content from YouTube, Hulu, Starz, CBS All Access, and Sling TV. Previously, Netflix content could be cast to the Nest Hub and Nest Hub Max, but the direct integration into the smart display means one less step.

In addition, one can cast to the Nest Hub and Nest Hub Max from many other services, including Disney+, HBO, Showtime, and Peacock.

The smart display is not a major streaming platform, but the addition of Netflix will definitely help the Nest Hub compete with the Amazon Echo Show. Amazon's device is Amazon Prime Video, Showtime, HBO, and Starz, and can also watch YouTube videos, but it is a bit clunky compared to the seamless integration of Google's devices.

The new streaming services on the Nest Hub and Nest Hub Max won't make me lean toward buying a Google smart display or an Amazon smart display. However, if you are interested in watching Netflix in more places in your home, this upgrade is definitely a welcome addition.