I’ve used Google Home speakers for years, which is why I was so excited when, after six long years, Google released a new one.

Google’s original Nest speakers have finally been upgraded with the new Google Home Speaker, effectively replacing the older generation with a sleeker, more AI-powered design. Priced at $100, this smart speaker is built to function with Gemini for Home, making it easy to use your device not just on its own, but with the rest of your smart home.

This new $100 model is one of my favorite upgrades yet. Setup took me less than five minutes, and Gemini makes everything from controlling my smart home to having full conversations easier.

Dimensions: 3.4 in H x 4.2 in diameter | Weight: 0.9 lbs (including power cable) | Audio: 58mm full-range driver, 360-degree sound | Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, Thread 1.3 | Microphones: 3 far-field microphones | Power: 30W USB-C power adapter (corded) | Colors: Berry, Porcelain, Hazel, Jade

Setup

Setup for the Google Home Speaker is through the original Google Home app. I added the device, and it took less than five minutes to fully complete the setup.

I was able to pick it almost immediately from the device list and then customize my speaker’s voice and privacy settings. Since I already have a Google Home setup, I just added it to the room I wanted to use it in.

From there, the speaker was ready to go.

AI functions

Every time I’ve used a Google Home speaker before, I’ve struggled with getting anything really useful out of it.

Now, with the new speaker built for Gemini, I can ask the speaker to set schedules, read out my calendar, have full conversations, like how to set up a new laptop, and even interrupt my assistant while having a conversation.

It can also sync to other smart devices in the home.

I don’t have a Google Nest doorbell or camera, but you can have your device check in on them or even ask your compatible smart coffee maker to brew a cup of coffee at 6 a.m.

I usually use my smart home speaker to turn on lights or change colors when I have guests over.

You will need Google Home Premium for some of these smart features, and I suggest upgrading to it if you have a fully functional smart home. With the Advanced plan, you can even search your camera history or get a Home Brief to recap what happened in your home while you were out.

Sound quality

The new Google Home Speaker delivers 360-degree sound.

Since it’s round, you’ll want to make sure it’s placed somewhere open to help maximize the soundstage. I found that the sound was significantly better when I placed it next to my media console than on my messy desk.

For a small speaker, it can get surprisingly loud, and while the bass and vocals sound clear at all volumes, sometimes the sound does feel less dynamic.

Is it worth it? Final verdict

If you want a smart speaker that puts its AI capabilities first and functions not just on its own but with the rest of your smart home, the new Google Home Speaker is for you.

It packs decent sound quality, but most of all, it’s easy to set up and use, even if you’re a smart home newbie.

For $100, I think it’s a worthwhile upgrade, especially if you’re already invested in Google’s smart home ecosystem. Gemini makes the speaker feel significantly more useful than previous generations, and while the sound isn’t perfect, it’s more than enough for everyday listening.

If you’re looking for a speaker primarily for music, you may want something with a little more power. But if you want a smart speaker that makes managing your home easier, Google has delivered.

This article was written by Nishka Dhawan, Commerce Reporter for the New York Post. Nishka reports on the latest tech launches, innovations and trends to separate the best new products from the “AI slop.” Taking the latest technology for a spin, Nishka tests home appliances and tech products that actually improve your life, from vacuums to headphones to gaming gadgets and more – all while finding the best deals and lowest prices. Before joining The Post in 2026, her work appeared in Rolling Stone, ABC, NBC Select, Reviewed and Digital Trends.