Google Releases a Smart New Speaker
Google’s Google Home Speaker, built for Gemini, offers a natural, conversational voice assistant with reasoning, multi-step requests, and contextual memory. The speaker delivers 360-degree audio, pairs with Google TV for surround sound, and uses premium AI features like camera history search and home summaries as part of the Gemini monthly subscription. It’s priced at $99.99 and available starting June 25.
The Circana Take:
- Companies with advanced AI models are revisiting smart speakers as key entry points to their applications. While smarter speakers may return, success will hinge on model differentiation and pricing.
Schlage Embraces UWB
Schlage’s Sense Pro Smart Deadbolt launches next week leveraging Matter over Thread, UWB (Ultra Wideband) and Apple HomeKey for seamless, hands-free unlocking. Its Converge technology uses motion and intent detection for precise entry. The lock supports Wi‑Fi control, automation, and up to 250 access codes via the Schlage app.
The Circana Take:
- By combining UWB, Matter, and Thread, the Sense Pro improves reliability across smart home ecosystems. It’s among the few locks using UWB with Apple HomeKey for proximity-based unlocking, signaling a shift toward more interoperable, automated home access.