Google's ambition to expand its smart home ecosystem seems unwavering, with potential new additions to its Nest home hardware lineup on the horizon. The tech giant, already a key player in the smart home market, particularly in Canada, could be gearing up to introduce a new generation of products, including a Nest Hub Max and a Nest Audio speaker, according to recent insights.
Intriguing evidence of these upcoming devices was unearthed through a meticulous teardown of the Google Home app by tech enthusiasts at 9to5Google. Teardowns, which involve dissecting an application's APK file to examine its code, often uncover hints about forthcoming features or products. Though it's a process not without its uncertainties, discoveries can sometimes offer a tantalizing glance at what tech companies like Google have in store. It's important to note, however, that not everything found in the code necessarily progresses to a final product.
This particular investigation into the Home app version 3.16 unearthed references suggesting Google might be developing a second-generation Nest Hub Max. This would mark an evolution from the model initially introduced in 2019. Details on how this new iteration will differentiate itself from its predecessor remain sparse, but it's confirmed to continue utilizing the Google Assistant smart display software that defines the Nest Hub family.
Furthermore, the probe revealed hints of a new ‘Nest Audio' speaker. This isn't the first time whispers of a successor to the Google Nest Audio have circulated, with speculations of an upgrade emerging as early as October 2022. However, Google reportedly encountered challenges in transitioning the Nest Audio lineup to the Fuchsia operating system (OS), casting uncertainty on the project's trajectory. Despite these hurdles, the latest findings indicate persistence in innovation, with the upcoming Nest Audio speaker expected to embrace ultra-wideband (UWB) connectivity, enhancing its ability to seamlessly integrate into users’ lives and smart home setups.
The potential of a second-generation Nest Hub Max joining Google's roster alongside the Pixel Tablet sparks curiosity. Both devices cater to similar demands within the smart home sphere, with the added versatility of the Pixel Tablet functioning as a portable device. It raises the question of what new features could distinguish the new Nest Hub Max. Speculation from 9to5Google suggests the inclusion of a Soli sensor for sleep tracking, aligning with capabilities established in the second-gen Nest Hub, could be a possibility.
With Google's ongoing investment in generative AI and innovative technologies, these developments signify the company's commitment to enhancing its smart home product ensemble. How the rumored Gemini support might influence these and future products remains a subject of keen interest, highlighting the dynamic nature of the tech landscape and Google's role within it.
As anticipation builds around the emergence of these devices, it's evident that Google's smart home ambitions continue to push the envelope, promising users in Canada and beyond more interconnected and intelligent home environments.
