Google Unveils New Home Speaker with Gemini AI, Launching June 25

Google has officially unveiled its new Home Speaker, marking its first smart speaker release in several years. The device is scheduled to launch on June 25 and will be priced at $99. It will be available in four distinct colors: Hazel, Porcelain, Jade, and Berry.

This new speaker is notable for being the first in Google's smart speaker lineup designed with Gemini AI commands at its core. This integration allows the device to process more complex natural-language commands compared to previous Google Assistant-powered devices. An example provided includes stringing multiple commands together, such as "turn off all the lights except my bedside lamp."

Certain advanced functionalities of the new Google Home Speaker will require a Google Home Premium subscription, which starts at $10 per month. These premium features include access to conversations with Gemini Live, the ability to inquire about events captured by Nest cameras, and a "Home Brief" feature designed to provide updates on household activities during a user's absence.

Users who already possess a Google AI Pro or Ultra subscription plan will automatically gain access to Google Home Premium at no additional cost. Furthermore, individuals subscribed to the more expensive AI Ultra plan will also receive complimentary access to Google Home Premium Advanced.

Concerns regarding the efficacy of AI voice commands were reported last year, with some users stating that Gemini performed less effectively than Google Assistant on older products. However, the new Home Speaker features updated hardware, which may address these previous performance issues.

(Source: Mashable Tech)