Key Points
- Google introduces the round Google Home Speaker with 360-degree sound and Gemini Live support.
- All Nest cameras now record in 2K resolution, upgrading from 1080p.
- New Zoom and Crop software lets users focus on specific camera areas and store up to an hour of footage locally.
- Video preview storage expands from one hour to three hours of 10-second clips.
- Expanded color options for Nest Cam Indoor, Outdoor, and Doorbell models.
- Nest Aware subscriptions rebranded as Google Home Premium and Google Home Premium Advanced.
- Updates maintain familiar Nest designs while delivering internal and software improvements.
New Google Home Speaker Expands the Nest Ecosystem
Google revealed a compact, round speaker called the Google Home Speaker, positioned as a potential successor to the Nest Mini. The device is offered in several colors and delivers “360-degree sound.” It also supports Gemini Live capabilities, including sound sensing for alerts such as smoke alarms or glass breaking, and can be paired with a Google TV Streamer.
Familiar Designs Receive Internal Enhancements
The refreshed Nest lineup keeps the outward look of its cameras and doorbells while upgrading internal components. All Nest devices with built‑in cameras now record in 2K resolution, moving beyond the previous 1080p standard. New software features include a “Zoom and Crop” tool that lets users focus on specific areas of a camera feed, and the ability to store up to an hour of footage locally if Wi‑Fi drops.
Video preview storage is also expanded, increasing the library of 10-second previews from one hour to three hours. Color selections have broadened: the Nest Cam Indoor now comes in Snow, Berry and Hazel, while the Nest Cam Outdoor is available in Snow and Hazel. The Nest Doorbell adds a Linen (beige) option alongside Snow and Hazel.
Subscription Rebranding Aligns with Gemini Integration
Google plans to rename its Nest Aware and Aware Plus subscriptions under the Google Home Premium brand, with an advanced tier labeled Google Home Premium Advanced. While details about feature tiers remain pending, the rebranding signals a tighter coupling of subscription services with the Gemini‑for‑Home capabilities slated for launch later in the year.
Strategic Continuity and Future Outlook
The approach mirrors Google’s recent hardware strategy, where external designs remain consistent while internal upgrades and software enhancements drive the value proposition. By rolling out these updates and aligning them with the upcoming Gemini for Home launch, Google aims to deepen its foothold in the smart‑home market without disrupting the familiar Nest experience for existing customers.
Source: engadget.com