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Manila Bulletin devider Technews devider Google Speakers just got a colorful update

Google Speakers just got a colorful update

Published Jun 20, 2026 11:45 am
After six years, Google is making a comeback in the smart speaker market with a pop of color and a lot of AI (Artificial Intelligence).
Considered its first smart speaker, the new iteration is built specifically for Gemini and was first teased last year. The new speakers are now available for pre-order in select markets ahead of their June 25 launch with a price tag of $99.99 USD.
As with advancements in AI, the new Google Home Speaker through Gemini for Home is designed to make conversations with Gemini more natural, allowing you to have a more relaxed and nuanced conversation rather than communicating via specific commands.
You can still begin commands with the familiar “Ok/Hey Google” prompt, then move on to more specific tasks like: “play the Stranger Things song by Kate Bush” or “turn on all the lights, except the one in the kitchen,” and Gemini will be able to understand. This should lessen miscommunication between you and your Google assistant.
Aside from more complicated orders, users can also make changes and corrections mid-sentence, without having to worry about the correct phrasing.
And if you find it annoying having to repeat “Hey Google” again and again, the new Google speaker comes with 10 new voice options and allows for Continued Conversation, which lets users ask follow-up questions without having to say “Hey Google”.
The Google Home Speaker also features 360-degree audio and a noticeably improved microphone, which lets it better capture voice commands.
If you are subscribed to Google Home Premium, there are additional features you can enjoy, such as Camera Search History for Nest cameras and Home Briefs, which can provide summaries of activities around the house, you know, in case you need to keep a closer eye on the kids at home.
As for that pop of color update: the Google Home Speaker will be available in Hazel and Porcelain, while the Jade and Berry variants are exclusive to the United States.
There are no announcements yet on when the Google Home Speaker will be available in the Philippines, as well as details such as pricing and pre-order details.

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