Google has a new smart speaker in the works, according to a recent report from Android Headlines. The device, which was briefly glimpsed during the recent Made by Google event, is expected to be a new flagship for the company’s smart home lineup, powered by Gemini.
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The “Home Speaker,” as it is reportedly called, will come in four colours: red, green, black, and white. Its design features a fabric finish and a light ring around the base, a departure from the top-facing light on previous Google speakers.
This new smart speaker is expected to offer several key features:
- Spatial TV Audio: A new spatial audio feature will allow the speaker to pair with a Google TV Streamer for an enhanced home theatre experience, a capability similar to Apple’s HomePods.
- Gemini Integration: The speaker will be powered by Gemini, not Google Assistant. It will include new natural voice options and likely support the paid tier of Gemini for Home.
- Smart Sound Detection: The device will have the ability to detect unusual sounds, such as breaking glass or a smoke alarm, and alert the user.
- Matter Support: The speaker will come with full support for the Matter smart home standard, ensuring broad compatibility with other smart devices.
While a release date has not been confirmed, a launch this fall alongside the rollout of Gemini for Home seems likely. With its focus on enhanced audio and deeper AI integration, this new speaker could be a significant step in Google’s smart home strategy.
