Stephen Schenck / Android Authority
Last week, Google announced its new Home smart speaker, focusing on Gemini integration, 360° audio, and the stereo pairing ability with a Google TV Streamer. From a practical standpoint, though, the first thing I looked at was the power supply of the speaker, and I was immediately disappointed.
Once again, Google has gone the DC power plug route for its speaker, eschewing the more universal USB-C format. I’m tired of having to find a spare wall outlet for Google’s speakers, especially when these are marketed as a nice accessory for most rooms in the home. I don’t have a spare wall outlet in every room, and I find it silly that Google has gone for DC barrel power once again.
A Google Home with DC barrel for power: Yay or Nay? 13 votes Yay 15 % Nay 85 %
USB-C is universally compatible
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
USB-C has been standard on Google hardware for years, including phones, earbuds, tablets, watches, and even Nest cams, but not on the company’s smart speakers or displays for some reason. It’s a confusing decision, even more so now in 2025 — or in 2026, when the Google Home Speaker will supposedly launch.
This choice couldn’t possibly be a question of power, though. USB-C can easily deliver more than 100W of power from one port and one cable, and I’m sure the new Google Home Speaker doesn’t come close to requiring 100W. (The existing Nest Audio has a 30W power adapter, so I expect something in this ballpark for the newer model.) When bigger and more powerful speakers like the JBL Xtreme 4 and Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM are fine with USB-C for power, I don’t see why a Google speaker wouldn’t find it enough.
If larger and more powerful speakers work over USB-C, going for DC power is unjustifiable.
Realistically, the only reason Google has skipped USB-C is a matter of cost. DC adapters are simpler hardware pieces because they’re tailored for one voltage output. They don’t have to negotiate power and don’t include USB controller chips. That’s why bulk manufacturing of DC adapters is much cheaper than USB wall chargers, let alone certified USB-C ones, and Google probably thought it was the safest and cheapest option instead of letting users find a compatible USB-C charger.
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