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

      Nevertheless, its most sophisticated AI features are behind a monthly paywall.

      Google

      After waiting for six years, Google has finally unveiled a new smart speaker. The $99 Google Home Speaker can be pre-ordered starting today and will be available in stores on June 25, 2026. It features Google’s conversational AI assistant, Gemini, at its core.

      With Gemini, you can engage in natural, multi-step dialogues with the speaker instead of giving it single commands. It comprehends natural language and logic, allowing you to converse more fluidly without having to structure everything like a voice command.

      How does the Google Home Speaker sound?

      In addition to the Gemini AI capabilities, the speaker provides 360-degree audio output, powered by a 58mm full-range driver that emits sound from all directions. This driver is twice the size of that in the Nest Mini, delivering enhanced bass.

      You can connect two speakers to form a stereo pair or connect them to a Google TV Streamer to create a surround sound home theater setup. A light ring underneath the speaker illuminates to indicate when Gemini is listening, processing, or responding, replacing the four hidden dots found in the Nest Audio.

      The speaker also functions as a Matter controller, enabling it to manage and connect smart home devices directly, eliminating the need for additional hubs. Additionally, it includes a privacy switch at the bottom to disable the microphones.

      The speaker is available in four colors: Porcelain, Hazel, Jade, and Berry, with Jade and Berry being exclusive to the US.

      Which AI features require a subscription?

      This is the more intricate aspect. While the free version of Gemini on the Home Speaker manages conversation, smart home control, and general inquiries, the features that set this device apart from other smart speakers are locked behind a subscription.

      These features include Gemini Live for natural conversations, Camera History Search to see what your Nest cameras recorded, and Home Briefs for a daily summary of activities around your home.

      Access to these features necessitates a Google Home Premium subscription, starting at $10 per month for the Standard plan or $20 per month for the Premium plan.

      Every purchase of the Home Speaker includes a six-month trial of Home Premium Standard, a valuable addition at launch but a continuing expense to consider once the trial period concludes.

      For over five years, Shikhar has been consistently simplifying advancements in consumer technology and presenting them…

      DJI’s Osmo Pocket 4P features dual cameras and a 1,000-nit OLED display

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

      DJI has recently announced the Osmo Pocket 4P, its most advanced pocket gimbal camera to date, which boasts a dual-camera system, a 1,000-nit OLED display, and 17 levels of dynamic range, all in a compact design that fits into your jacket pocket. The Pocket 4P is priced at CNY 3,799 (approximately $562) in China, where it comes in Classic Black and Pearl White. A Vlog Set that includes additional accessories is priced at CNY 4,299 (around $636). However, there is a significant drawback for U.S. consumers.

      Roku is reportedly considering a sale, with its 100 million users as the prime target

      The company is said to be contemplating a sale amidst interest from media and technology firms.

      Roku may not be an independent company for much longer. According to a Reuters report citing sources familiar with the situation, the streaming platform is examining strategic options, including a complete sale, with at least one U.S. media company already engaged in preliminary talks.

      Roku is contemplating a sale amid heightened interest in the industry.

      Spotify has removed tens of thousands of fraudulent podcasts connected to online drug sales

      Spotify is working to eliminate thousands of fake podcasts associated with scam websites.

      Over the past year, Spotify has been quietly removing tens of thousands of counterfeit podcasts purportedly used to advertise illegal online pharmacies and scam websites. Recently, a new congressional report has raised concerns about how this scheme was allowed to thrive on one of the largest audio platforms globally.

      As reported by Wired, malicious actors created thousands of fake podcasts not intended to attract genuine listeners. Instead, they were crafted to manipulate Spotify’s search rankings and enhance the visibility of sites peddling prescription drugs without prescriptions, including opioids, stimulants, and benzodiazepines.