Google Bets on Gemini to Reinvent the Smart Home Speaker
TechCrunch AI40 days agoHardwareGoogle 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.
Gemini-Powered Google Home Speaker Arrives June 25 for $100
Ars Technica AI40 days agoHardwareGoogle 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.
Google's First Smart Speaker in Six Years Ships June 29
The Verge AI41 days agoHardwareGoogle's Home Speaker, priced at $99 and announced nine months ago, ships June 29 with preorders opening June 17. The device ends a six-year gap in Google's smart speaker lineup and integrates Gemini AI. Its hardware — a slightly squished round form with touch-capacitive buttons — is unchanged from its original announcement, and the product narrowly missed a promised spring launch window.
Say hi to Siri AI: Apple announces more conversational voice assistant★ 76
Ars Technica AI49 days agoReleaseApple announced “Siri AI,” a more conversational version of its voice assistant planned for this fall. The update is tied to a two-tier AI model overhaul powered in part by Google technology. The move signals Apple’s attempt to close the gap with modern AI assistants while preserving its system-level integration and privacy-focused positioning.
Apple gives Siri its own dedicated app
TechCrunch AI49 days agoNew ToolTechCrunch reports that Siri is finally getting its own dedicated app. The provided text does not include details about features, launch timing, supported devices, or AI capabilities. The move could signal a more prominent product surface for Siri, but the available source text is too limited to confirm broader strategy or functionality.
WWDC 2026: How to Watch and What to Expect from Apple's Big Event★ 78
The Verge AI50 days agoCommentaryApple's annual WWDC 2026 is just around the corner, spotlighting upcoming updates for iOS, macOS, and other operating systems. The headline expectation is a massive, AI-driven overhaul for Siri, aiming to make the assistant far more capable. This guide covers how to watch the keynote live and what major announcements to prepare for.