Google has always taken a slow and steady approach to smart speakers. Rather than dropping multiple new versions every year or two (looking at you, Amazon), the company kept the lineup tight and waited years between models. Yes, it's taken six years to see a new version of a Google smart speaker.
The new Google Home Speaker comes 10 years after the original Google Home. It doesn't resemble the original, instead adopting a familiar design from competitors like the HomePod Mini, with a short and round stature.
It's designed around Google Gemini instead of Google Assistant, and works well for what it is. It's easy to control smart-home devices, can be used as a stereo pair or surround sound if you have a Google TV Streamer, and has a snappy response time to questions. The new Gemini assistant is a little smarter and sounds more human than Alexa+. If I had to choose a favorite of this next generation of smart speakers, this would be the one. It's unfortunate, though, that some of its best features sit behind a paywall.
Fabric Orb #
It might look like a HomePod Mini, but the color options make it feel distinctly Google. It's a shame that shades like Jade and Berry (pictured above) are exclusive to the US, though. The rest of the world is stuck with Hazel and Porcelain.