Google's first smart speaker in years, the $99.99 Google Home Speaker, is powered by Gemini rather than Google Assistant, offering a more natural, conversational way to control a home. It provides 360-degree sound and strong bass. The speaker succeeds the $99.99 Nest Audio from 2020 and ditches the Nest branding. It runs a version of Google’s generative AI called Gemini for Home and works with the Google Home app. Available in Berry, Hazel, Jade, or Porcelain, the mostly spherical design resembles the $99.99 Amazon Echo Dot Max. The speaker has touch controls hidden under a mesh surface; tapping the middle plays or pauses music, and tapping the sides adjusts volume. The Jade version tested offers a pop of color. The speaker has a physical mute switch and an attached power cord. It measures 4.2 inches in diameter by 3.4 inches tall and weighs 0.9 pounds. Google says the speaker is made of 37% recycled materials, and the fabric is produced through a 3D knitting process. The Google Home Speaker earns PCMag's Editors' Choice award.