AI News

News · · 9:34 PM · prionel

Google Introduces $100 Home Speaker with AI Features

Google has announced the launch of a new Google Home Speaker, featuring a design more akin to the HomePod mini than previous models.

The speaker's design resembles the HomePod mini, though it is not as rounded. Google aims for the same price point as Apple's HomePod mini, which retails for $99. Apple has not updated the HomePod mini for some time, but a refresh could occur this year.

The new Google Home Speaker integrates with Google's Gemini AI and the new Google Home Premium service. It supports natural voice chat for AI interactions, offering features such as cooking assistance, travel planning, idea exploration, study help, calendar management, language learning, advice, skill development, and music playback.

A physical toggle has been added to disable the microphone, ensuring privacy by preventing the speaker from listening to conversations.

The Google Home Premium service is integral to the updated speaker, designed to work with speakers, cameras, and displays, providing AI oversight and simple conversation-based automation. It can analyze footage from connected cameras and send alerts for events like package deliveries, people detection, open doors, and smoke alarms.

Google's new speaker is set to release in spring 2026, priced at $100. Google Home Premium Standard costs $10 per month or $100 annually, while Google Home Premium Advanced is $20 per month or $200 annually, offering daily summaries and video history search options.