Google Teases New Smart Speaker Launch After Six-Year Hiatus
Google has announced its first new smart speaker in over six years is set to launch soon, following extensive early access testing. The device, teased by a Google executive, aims to improve the smart home experience, potentially challenging existing market leaders. Over 3.5 million users signed up for early access.
Key points
- Google's Chief Product Officer for Home & Nest confirmed a new smart speaker is slated for release.
- This marks Google's first new smart speaker offering in more than six years.
- An email to early access testers cited over 2,500 bug fixes and a planned wider launch in 20 countries.
- The early access program for the new device attracted 3.5 million user sign-ups.
- The launch is intended to enhance the smart home ecosystem and address user feedback.
Google is preparing to release its first new smart speaker in over six years, according to recent communications from the tech giant. Anish Kattukaran, Chief Product Officer for Google Home & Nest, has teased the imminent arrival of the device.
The company has been actively developing the new smart home hub, with an extensive early access program involving 3.5 million user sign-ups. Feedback from these testers reportedly led to over 2,500 bug fixes and informed plans for a broader launch across 20 countries and 10 languages. Software updates have also seen the return of features like 'Continued Conversation'.
The upcoming speaker is positioned as a significant update to Google's smart home hardware lineup, aiming to refine the user experience and address some of the inherent complexities of connected living. The executive emphasized his personal awareness of both the potential and the occasional frustrations associated with smart home technology, suggesting the new product seeks to bridge that gap.
Sources
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