Google launched its new "Google Home Speaker" with Gemini built in on June 25, 2026, priced at $99.99. Early assessments praise the conversational assistant while flagging the audio as a step down from the Nest Audio.
June 25, 2026 · Google Nest
The $99 Gemini Speaker Arrives — But the Sound Doesn't
Google's first major smart speaker in six years puts Gemini front and center. Early reviews praise the design and conversation, but call the audio a letdown — and the best AI tricks sit behind a subscription.
$99.99
Same price as the 2020 Nest Audio
6 yrs
Since Google's last major speaker
360°
Audio from a single 58mm driver
Same price, fewer drivers
The new speaker drops from two dedicated drivers to one — and reviewers say the bass goes with it.
Google Home
1 driver
Nest Audio
2 drivers · flagship
What reviewers liked
Compact body and clean design
Even 360° room-filling sound
Gemini's improved context & multi-step commands
Physical microphone mute switch
"A reasonable $100 Gemini speaker for newcomers"
What fell short
Single driver trails Nest Audio in bass & impact
Audio called "a letdown"
"Little reason to bring it into the home"
Gemini already runs on existing speakers
Best AI features need a paid subscription
The catch
The full Gemini experience is a subscription
Gemini Live and advanced automation are gated behind Google Home Premium. A six-month free trial ships in the box ($60 value), then:
Premium Standard
$10/mo · $100/yr
Premium Advanced
$20/mo · $200/yr
The strategy — selling an AI experience over audio quality — will face scrutiny as user feedback builds.
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