google has refreshed its smart speaker lineup for the first time since 2020 and announced the home speaker. this sophisticated and vibrant device is equipped with firmware featuring the gemini neural network and is designed for smart home control.
google did not reveal the exact dimensions of the device at the event, but according to promotional materials, it is slightly larger than the yandex station mini 3 pro. the speaker is covered with perforated fabric and has an led ring on the bottom that indicates status and operation.
the manufacturer claims that it features 360-degree surround sound (the speaker's output is undisclosed) and the ability to connect two devices to achieve stereo sound. it also supports the matter and thread protocols, making it a smart home control hub.
the demonstration emphasized its smart features. the new product uses the gemini for home neural network instead of the google assistant, allowing it to handle everything from everyday conversations to complex commands involving multiple actions.
google highlighted other features of the speaker, including a microphone mute button and the ability to connect the speaker to a tv via the google tv streamer to achieve surround sound.
the home speaker is available in four colors - black, beige, green, and red - and is scheduled to be released in the spring of 2026. the speaker itself costs $99 in the us, while a subscription to google gemini, which provides access to advanced neural network features, starts at $10 per month.
