Google Launches Gemini AI Home Speaker with Subscription Model and Advanced Features
June 17, 2026
Google unveils a new Home Speaker powered by Gemini AI, priced at $99 and set to ship June 25, with color options including Hazel, Porcelain, Jade, and Berry.
Gemini for Home is designed to handle multi-step commands, mid-sentence corrections, and richer context, enabling complex tasks like managing lighting across the home.
Access to the full Gemini capabilities requires subscribing to a Google Home Premium tier, introducing a subscription-based value proposition beyond basic features.
The device features a compact spherical design with knitted fabric, 360-degree audio, a privacy-focused mic mute switch, and a LED status ring indicating listening or processing.
Color options include Hazel, Porcelain, and exclusive US colors Jade and Berry, with a design emphasis on tactile controls and privacy features.
Top-mounted capacitive touch controls provide an alternative to voice commands for playback and media control.
Google frames the subscription model as a core part of the overall value proposition for Gemini for Home.
Inside, a quad-core 2 GHz processor with a dedicated NPU runs local AI models to improve sound isolation and reduce background noise.
Related tech news mentions include DJI Osmo Pocket 4P in China, Roku exploring a sale, and Spotify removing fake podcasts tied to drug sales.
The Home Speaker resembles a larger Nest Mini, standing about 3.5 inches tall with a 58 mm full-range driver delivering 360-degree sound and enhanced bass; Nest branding is dropped.
Designed for natural, conversational interactions, it can handle music, calendars, reminders, recipes, and multi-step tasks, with support for interruptions and follow-ups.
As a Matter controller and Thread border router, the device links with smart-home devices and runs Thread 1.3 at launch.
Summary based on 10 sources
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Sources

TechCrunch • Jun 17, 2026
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