Do smart speakers still make sense in 2025?

Welcome to episode 70 of Pixelated, a podcast by 9to5Google. This week, Abner, Damien, and Will talk through their feeling surrounding the upcoming smart speaker Google appears to be readying for launch next month. From whether a Gemini-powered smart speaker fits with what people ask for in their homes to debating if a display is absolutely necessary to make the device worth it, all three hosts work through their feelings on the looming reboot of a once-booming market, and where Google might intend to take the lineup moving forward.

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Timecodes

• 00:00 - How do we feel about smart speakers in the Gemini era?
• 10:29 - Do people want to replace their aging Nest Minis?
• 14:48 - Smart speakers vs. smart displays.
• 24:35: - Should Google even sell smart speakers anymore?
• 34:47 - Final thoughts

Hosts

• Abner Li
• Damien Wilde
• Will Sattelberg

Read more

• ‘Google Home Speaker’ branding leaks with ‘360 audio’ touted
• Google teases new Nest Cam and Gemini updates for Home coming on October 1
• Google announces ‘Gemini for Home’ and briefly shows new smart speaker

Listen to more 9to5 Podcasts

• The Sideload
• 9to5Mac Happy Hour
• Electrek
• Space Explored

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