Google Home Speaker with Gemini AI drops to $79, 20% off at major retailers

Google’s newest Home Speaker, powered by the Gemini AI model, is now being offered at a discount of roughly 20 percent. The device, which launched in June, is listed for $79—down from its regular $99.99 price—at major retailers including Best Buy, Walmart and Target, and is available in four color options.

The speaker’s design has been highlighted for its compact size, which is smaller than the previous‑generation Nest Audio, making it easy to place in various rooms. Reviewers noted that despite its reduced footprint the unit delivers loud, clear 360‑degree audio, and in comparative testing it sounded cleaner and sharper than the similarly priced Amazon Echo Dot Max, though some reviewers preferred the Echo’s fuller bass. The older Nest Audio is still regarded as having superior overall sound, but the new model offers a lower price and smaller size.

In addition to audio performance, the Google Home Speaker supports the Matter standard and includes a Thread border router, enabling control of a broad range of compatible smart‑home devices. It can also serve as an audio output for the Google TV Streamer 4K, allowing TV sound to be played through one or two speakers instead of the TV’s built‑in speakers.

A key feature of the device is its Gemini‑based assistant, which is described as more adept at natural‑language and complex requests than the earlier Google Assistant. Reviewers observed that Gemini can handle multiple smart‑home commands simultaneously and respond to conversational prompts, such as adjusting the air conditioner when a temperature complaint is mentioned. Some Gemini capabilities, including “Gemini Live” for extended conversations without repeating the wake word, require a $10‑per‑month Google Home Premium subscription.