How does Google Home Speaker differ from previous Nest models?

The Google Home Speaker abandons the Nest brand, introducing a refreshed audio system with 360-degree sound and the Gemini voice assistant instead of Google Assistant. Controls are simplified with touch-based adjustments, eliminating physical buttons.

How does Gemini perform in Google Home Speaker?

Gemini offers more natural and less intrusive interactions than Alexa or Siri, responding faster to commands and providing accurate answers. It supports generative AI features but occasionally uses templated phrases.

Is Google Home Speaker worth buying over Amazon Echo or Apple HomePod mini?

The Google Home Speaker outperforms Amazon Echo Dot in sound and AI capabilities but lags behind Apple HomePod mini in microphone quality and hardware. Choose based on priorities: AI-driven voice assistance or premium audio and mic performance.

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Hardware

Google Home Speaker with Gemini: First Look at the Next-Gen Smart Speaker

June 25, 2026

Photo: ZDNet

Quick answer

Google has launched the Google Home Speaker with integrated Gemini voice assistant. The device features 360-degree sound, touch-based controls, and more natural AI interactions compared to predecessors.

Google has officially unveiled the new Google Home Speaker—the first model under this brand since 2018. Designed to compete in the smart speaker market dominated by Amazon Echo and Apple HomePod mini, the device introduces the Gemini voice assistant to enhance natural and intuitive interactions.

The Google Home Speaker features a 360-degree sound system, a significant upgrade from Nest’s previous front-facing audio designs. The manufacturer claims a 2.5x increase in bass compared to Nest Mini, though its hardware is less robust: a single 58mm driver versus Nest Audio’s 75mm mid-woofer and 19mm tweeter. Despite this, tests revealed powerful, clear audio comparable to Apple HomePod mini.

Control is touch-based, with no physical buttons: pausing requires a tap on the top, and volume adjustments are made by touching side indicators. This intuitive design proved user-friendly even for beginners. However, the microphone system disappointed, struggling to recognize commands during loud music, undermining voice control benefits.

Gemini in the Google Home Speaker performs noticeably better than Alexa* or Siri, offering faster response times, more accurate answers, and generative AI support. Unlike Alexa’s overly enthusiastic tone, Gemini behaves naturally, though it occasionally relies on templated phrases. Compared to HomePod mini, which lacks generative AI, Google provides a more modern solution.

Priced around $100, the Google Home Speaker competes with Nest Audio and Amazon Echo Dot. Despite minor flaws, it stands as a strong alternative, especially for users prioritizing AI-driven voice assistants. However, those seeking flawless sound or microphone performance may prefer competitors.

Common questions

How does Google Home Speaker differ from previous Nest models?: The Google Home Speaker abandons the Nest brand, introducing a refreshed audio system with 360-degree sound and the Gemini voice assistant instead of Google Assistant. Controls are simplified with touch-based adjustments, eliminating physical buttons.
How does Gemini perform in Google Home Speaker?: Gemini offers more natural and less intrusive interactions than Alexa or Siri, responding faster to commands and providing accurate answers. It supports generative AI features but occasionally uses templated phrases.
Is Google Home Speaker worth buying over Amazon Echo or Apple HomePod mini?: The Google Home Speaker outperforms Amazon Echo Dot in sound and AI capabilities but lags behind Apple HomePod mini in microphone quality and hardware. Choose based on priorities: AI-driven voice assistance or premium audio and mic performance.

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