With a focus on AI, audio, and eco-friendly design, Google’s new $99 flagship smart speaker promises expressive interactions and surround-sound integration
A New Era of Smart Speakers Begins in 2026
Google has officially teased its next-generation Google Home speaker, built from the ground up with Gemini AI at its core. Priced at $99, the speaker is scheduled to launch in spring 2026 across major global markets, including the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, and much of Europe and Asia-Pacific.
The device comes in four colors:
- Porcelain
- Hazel
- Berry
- Jade
“It’s got to work for the existing users,” said Anish Kattukaran, Chief Product Officer at Google Home and Nest. “We don’t want to force you to buy a new one… unless you want to.”
Why the Wait Until 2026?
The delayed launch is intentional. Google wants to refine the Gemini experience by first bringing AI features to existing devices through Early Access, where users can test features and provide feedback.
This staggered approach also ensures:
- Gemini works seamlessly with 800M+ existing smart home devices
- Users don’t feel pressured to upgrade prematurely
- Google has time to refine Gemini Live, its advanced conversational AI mode
Built for Gemini: Smarter Inside and Out
The new Google Home speaker is custom-built to run Gemini, enabling a smarter, more conversational experience via Gemini Live (available with a Google Home Premium subscription).
Key Gemini-specific features include:
- On-device processing for real-time voice recognition and noise handling
- Background noise suppression
- Echo and reverb cancellation to distinguish between multiple voices in the room
- A light ring under the speaker for visual feedback when Gemini is listening, thinking, or responding
Audio and Smart Home Features
While AI takes center stage, the speaker doesn’t forget its audio-first roots:
- 360-degree audio for immersive sound
- Speaker groups in the Google Home app for whole-home playback
- Surround sound pairing with Google TV Streamers — finally addressing a long-standing user request
You’ll be able to pair two speakers with a Google TV device for a full cinematic audio experience.
Design and Sustainability
Google says the new speaker features a 3D-knitted fabric cover, which:
- Reduces waste during production
- Enhances sustainability in manufacturing
- Still offers a premium aesthetic consistent with past Nest products
Global Launch Markets
The device will be available in spring 2026 in the following countries:
- North America: U.S., Canada
- Europe: U.K., Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria
- Asia-Pacific: Japan, Australia, New Zealand
