Google's latest Home Speaker, priced at $99, delivers 360-degree sound and advanced Gemini features.

      Nonetheless, its most sophisticated AI features are available only through a monthly subscription.

      After a six-year wait, Google has finally unveiled a new smart speaker. The $99 Google Home Speaker is now available for pre-order and will be released on June 25, 2026. The speaker centers around Google’s conversational AI assistant: Gemini.

      With Gemini, users can engage in natural, multi-step conversations with the speaker rather than giving separate commands. It comprehends everyday language and reasoning, allowing for more natural speech without needing to phrase everything as a voice command.

      So, what does the Google Home Speaker sound like?

      In addition to the Gemini AI component, the smart speaker delivers 360-degree sound from a 58mm full-range driver, projecting audio in all directions. This driver is double the size of that in the Nest Mini, and it offers enhanced bass.

      Users can connect two speakers for a stereo setup or link them with a Google TV Streamer to create a spatial surround sound home theater experience. A light ring at the base of the speaker illuminates to indicate when Gemini is listening, thinking, or responding, replacing the four hidden dots seen on the Nest Audio.

      The speaker also functions as a Matter controller, enabling it to directly manage and connect smart home devices without the need for extra hubs. Additionally, there’s a privacy switch at the bottom to turn off the microphones.

      The speaker is available in four colors: Porcelain, Hazel, Jade, and Berry. Jade and Berry are exclusive to the U.S.

      What AI features require a subscription?

      This part is more complex. Although the free version of Gemini on the Home Speaker manages conversations, smart home control, and general inquiries, the unique features that set it apart from other smart speakers require a monthly subscription.

      These exclusive features include Gemini Live for fluid conversations, Camera History Search for checking what your Nest cameras recorded, and Home Briefs for a daily activity summary around your home.

      All these features necessitate a Google Home Premium subscription, which begins at $10 per month for the Standard plan or $20 per month for the Premium plan.

      Every purchase of the Home Speaker comes with a six-month trial of Home Premium Standard, which is a significant addition at launch, though it will become a recurring expense once the trial concludes.

      For over five years, Shikhar has effectively simplified advancements in consumer technology and shared them…

      DJI has introduced the Osmo Pocket 4P, featuring dual cameras and a 1,000-nit OLED screen.

      However, it is unavailable for purchase in the United States, as DJI has been included on the FCC's Covered List since December 2025.

      DJI just launched the Osmo Pocket 4P, its most advanced pocket gimbal camera to date, equipped with a dual-camera system, a 1,000-nit OLED screen, and 17 levels of dynamic range, all compact enough to fit in your jacket pocket. The Pocket 4P is priced at CNY 3,799 (approximately $562) in China, available in Classic Black and Pearl White. A Vlog Set that includes extra accessories is offered for CNY 4,299 (around $636). However, there is a significant drawback for consumers in America.

      Roku is reportedly considering a sale, with its 100 million users being a major draw.

      The company is reportedly evaluating a sale amid interest from media and tech companies.

      Roku may not remain independent for much longer. A Reuters report, citing insiders, reveals that the streaming platform is looking into strategic options that could include a full sale, with at least one U.S. media company already engaged in initial discussions. Roku is reportedly contemplating a sale due to increasing industry interest.

      Spotify has removed tens of thousands of fake podcasts associated with online drug sales.

      Spotify is in the process of eliminating thousands of counterfeit podcasts that were allegedly used to promote illegal online pharmacies and fraudulent websites. Recently, a congressional report has raised concerns regarding how this scheme managed to thrive on one of the world's largest audio platforms initially.

      As reported by Wired, malicious actors created thousands of phony podcasts that were never meant to attract genuine listeners. Instead, they aimed to manipulate Spotify’s search results and enhance the visibility of websites selling prescription medications without proper prescriptions, including opioids, stimulants, and benzodiazepines.