Google has refreshed its smart speaker lineup with the all-new Google Home Speaker. It’s the first audio device built for the Gemini for Home voice assistant.
The Google Home Speaker runs Gemini for Home, which understands natural speech instead of fixed command phrases. Users can issue multiple commands in a single sentence, correct themselves mid-request, and ask follow-up questions without repeating a wake phrase, aided by conversational context, which Google calls “short-term memory.”
Gemini for Home ships with 10 new voice options. Additionally, the speaker includes Continued Conversation support, which keeps the microphone open briefly after a response to enable a more fluid conversation.
The speaker supports 360-degree sound and includes microphone processing designed to adapt to ambient noise. It can pair with a Google TV Streamer, and users can connect up to two Google Home speakers with the Streamer for spatial surround sound.
Google Home Speaker comes in four colours: Hazel, Porcelain, and the US-exclusive Jade and Berry. It is wrapped in a 3D-knit textile and includes a light ring that indicates when the assistant is listening, processing, or responding, along with a physical mute switch.
A Google Home Premium subscription unlocks additional features, including Gemini Live for open-ended conversations, Camera History Search for querying Nest camera footage, and Home Briefs, which summarises household activity while users are away.
The Google Home Speaker is available for pre-order now and will be in stores June 25 for $99.99. There’s no word on the Indian pricing or availability.
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