Google's new Google Home speaker is now available for pre-order at $100, with shipments beginning June 25. The compact device replaces the Nest Audio as Google's latest smart speaker offering, featuring 360-degree audio and a sleek 3D knit fabric shell in hazel, porcelain, jade, and berry colors.

The speaker introduces a significant shift by making Gemini the primary digital assistant instead of the traditional Google Assistant. This upgrade enables more complex multi-step commands, better contextual understanding, and a longer short-term memory for deeper conversations. Google redesigned the interface with a base LED ring rather than backlit mesh for more dynamic feedback when listening or responding.

Pairing two units creates stereo speakers, and when connected to Google's TV Streamer, delivers immersive movie and show audio. The Gemini Live subscription ($10/month standard, $20 premium) unlocks advanced AI features like home automation and security camera summaries, though some Google AI subscribers already have partial access.

The $100 price point positions this as Google's mid-tier smart speaker refresh, competing directly with Amazon's Echo devices while pushing Gemini as the future of conversational AI in homes.