Google Introduces Home Mini and Max Smart Speakers

The second generation Google Pixel phones are not the only hardware announcements at the company’s recent California event. They are also introducing the new Home Mini and Home Max smart speaker systems. The Home Mini’s arrival is known for a while since information leaked out a few weeks ago. The new Home Max however is a pleasant surprise since it appears to be the company’s bid to compete against Sonos.

Google Home Mini

Much of what was in the rumour mill was true, including the three colour options and the fabric cover use. This compact device projects 360 degree sound and makes use of far-field microphones.  It is also aiming squarely against the Amazon Echo Dot for only $49 USD.  However, it is not wireless so it is not as versatile. It is capable of initiating calls, keeping track of the weather and sending commands to other devices.

Google Home Max

The Google Home Max has a similar cloth fabric front for the speaker, however it is also significantly larger than other Google Home products. With dual stereo speakers, the Home Max is the company’s bid to go head to head against Sonos, Bose and even Apple’s upcoming HomePod. Two 4.5-inch woofers surrounded by several tweeters are hidden beneath the fabric grille. It almost looks like a classic Apple product with its minimal design. The Home Max also has a 3.5mm aux jack and a USB-C port aside from Bluetooth and wireless connectivity.

Since this product is meant for audiophiles, it is capable of some advanced machine learning features. It can calibrate and adjust the optimal listening sound in a room for instance. In fact, Google claims that it adjusts almost immediately so users can move in anywhere they please. They are calling this feature “Smart Sound”.

While the Home Mini only fetches for $49 USD, the Home Max understandably goes for quite a bit more at $499 USD. Users can get it in chalk or charcoal colour options.