48 hours later with the Google Home Speaker, I can't stop talking to Gemini (even if it's imperfect)

Google Home Speaker 3 / 5 Good pros and cons Pros Loud, crisp sound

Gemini for Home with generative AI

Intuitive controls. Cons The microphone array doesn't pick up voices when the music is loud

More expensive than Nest Mini alternatives. View now at Best Buy View now at Target more buying choices

Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google.

The Google Home Speaker was officially released as the company's latest take on a smart speaker, its first in six years. I've been testing the Google Home Speaker for nearly 48 hours, and I've got some interesting first impressions.

Also: This tablet replaced both my iPad and Kindle, and it's 40% off on Amazon right now

With 360-degree audio, the Google Home Speaker offers a new audio experience compared to the Nest Audio and Nest Mini, both of which feature front-facing sound. The new experience, however, doesn't necessarily mean it will be obviously better.

The new audio experience

With the Google Home Speaker, Google did away with the Nest moniker for its smart home speakers and redesigned the audio experience for its newest device. While many customers are looking forward to the new Google Home Speaker, others are concerned that the technology inside may not be enough to justify the upgrade.

... continue reading