Introducing the New Google Home Speaker
- Debut of smart speaker with a new Gemini branding, moving away from Nest
- Official release anticipated in 2026
- Available in four diverse colors, though only two options for UK consumers
- Some features require a new Google Home Premium subscription
After a prolonged hiatus of five years, Google has unveiled its latest smart speaker offering.
The new device made a brief appearance during the Pixel 10 launch but was not addressed at that time. Now, the Google Home Speaker is official, and we’re excited to share all the details.
The smart speaker has officially dropped the Nest branding (though this will still be used for cameras and doorbells), and it leverages Google’s advanced Gemini AI technology.
Interestingly, following the Nest Audio‘s launch in 2020, the Home Speaker will not be available until 2026.
Google Home Speaker: What’s New?
Gemini AI Integration
In line with expectations, Google will transition from the Google Assistant to Gemini AI across all smart home devices.
This AI technology is designed to facilitate more natural interactions, improving comprehension and simplifying everyday tasks at home. Google’s claim emphasizes that it can assist with various issues, like identifying problems with your dishwasher, and it features ten distinct ‘natural-sounding’ voice options.
There’s a caveat, however: while you can utilize Gemini on the device for free, advanced capabilities like Gemini Live, Sound Detection, and Daily Summaries will require a subscription plan.
Google’s Nest Aware offerings are being rebranded to Google Home Premium, available in Standard and Premium tiers priced at £8/$10 and £16/$20 monthly, respectively (with annual plans also offered). New buyers will receive a 6-month complimentary trial.
Details are still unclear regarding whether the speaker will function as a smart hub for Thread or Matter devices.
Design Overview
The new Home Speaker not only discards the Nest name but also introduces an updated design while remaining reminiscent of earlier models.
This orb-shaped speaker is larger than the Nest Mini but shorter than the Nest Audio, and it comes encased in eco-friendly fabric.
Unfortunately, while it arrives in a selection of four colors—Jade, Berry, Porcelain, and Hazel—the UK market is limited to just the latter two.
The redesign includes a new lighting feature, replacing the four-dot indicators previously hidden under fabric with a ring light around the base, providing “expressive visual feedback” regarding Gemini’s activity.
A physical switch to mute the microphone is conveniently located on the underside of the device.
Sound Capabilities
Staying true to its circular form, Google is promoting the speaker’s 360-degree audio, allowing for a consistent sound experience from all directions.
Additionally, users can pair two Home Speakers for stereo sound and connect them with a Google TV Streamer for a promised “cinematic experience with spatial surround sound.”
The speaker boasts balanced audio tuning designed to optimize sound quality for music, podcasts, and movies, and it also supports grouping with other Nest speakers, displays, and Google Cast-enabled devices.
When is the Google Home Speaker Release Date?
As previously mentioned, the Google Home Speaker has been officially announced; however, consumers will need to wait quite some time to purchase one.
Google has provided a vague timeline, indicating a release in ‘Spring 2026’.
Interested buyers can sign up for notifications on the Google Store.
How Much Does the Google Home Speaker Cost?
The price for the Home Speaker will be set at £99/$99, which aligns with the Nest Audio price in the U.S. but is slightly higher in the UK market.
Currently, there will be only one model available, although it’s possible Google may introduce a premium ‘Max’ version later.
What About a New Smart Display?
For those interested in smart displays, there may be positive developments on the horizon. Anish Kattukaran, the product management director for Google Home and Nest, indicated to our sister site PCWorld that the company is “deeply committed to that category” and will provide updates in the coming year.
This suggestion points towards a potential new Nest Hub or Home Hub entry in 2026.
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