Google announces AI speaker

Google has unveiled its new AI-powered smart speaker, the Google Home Speaker, with a design reminiscent of Apple’s HomePod mini. The company officially launched this device, which now runs on Gemini AI instead of Google Assistant, at its Pixel 10 series launch event in August. This device, which now runs on Gemini AI instead of Google Assistant, has been released in select countries.

Google Home Speaker Unveiled

The new device ditches the Nest branding for “Home.” The Google Home Speaker stands out with its flattened sphere design and RGB light ring that reflects voice responses.

Unlike the directional sound Nest Audio, this speaker offers 360° sound in all directions and is ideal for placement in the center of a room. For security and privacy, a physical microphone mute button is located on the bottom of the speaker.

The Google Home Speaker’s biggest innovation is the Gemini feature of its built-in digital assistant. This feature allows users to have natural and fluid conversations with AI. The speaker also features Gemini Live for seamless, interactive interactions. Google says the speaker features a dedicated processor that processes Gemini’s advanced artificial intelligence to enable faster and more seamless interactions. Google’s new smart speaker, the Google Home Speaker, will be released in spring 2026 with a price tag of $100.