Google has unveiled a new $99.99 Google Home Speaker that swaps out the rule-based Google Assistant for Gemini-powered conversational interactions. The product represents a direct bet that generative AI can revive consumer interest in the smart speaker category. Rather than requiring precise voice commands, users can now speak more naturally with the device.
Google has opened preorders for its new $100 Google Home Speaker, set to ship June 25, 2026 — roughly ten months after it was first announced. The device's primary selling point is deep Gemini AI integration rather than premium audio performance. The launch positions Google's smart speaker lineup squarely as an AI assistant platform rather than a high-fidelity audio product.