It looks like Google is ready to let its partners back into the smart speaker market. After a period where third-party speakers with Google’s tech practically vanished, a new leak suggests that Walmart is preparing to launch a budget-friendly device powered by Gemini.
Walmart’s new smart speaker to bring Gemini Home to the masses
For years, the “Google Assistant smart speaker” category was filled with options from brands like JBL. However, those releases dried up recently. The last major standout was the JBL Authentics lineup in late 2023. Since then, Google has been pivoting hard toward Gemini, leaving third-party hardware in a bit of limbo until now.
A product listing for a new “Onn Smart Speaker” from Walmart recently surfaced on the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) website (via 9to5Google). Unlike the speakers of the past, this one is specifically listed as a Gemini-powered device.
A solid early spec sheet
According to the CSA filing, this new Onn speaker covers all the essentials without trying to overcomplicate things. It features a 10W speaker and supports seamless media streaming via Bluetooth or Google Cast for Audio. Beyond playing music, the device functions as a full smart home hub with integrated Gemini voice controls.
The hardware design is just as practical, featuring physical volume and playback buttons alongside LED indicators. For those wary of privacy, the device includes a dedicated hardware kill switch to physically disconnect the far-field microphone array.
A budget alternative to Google
While we don’t have an official price tag yet, Walmart’s Onn brand is famous for undercutting the competition. This speaker could be significantly below the rumored $100 “Google Home Speaker” that we show you in exclusive images.
There is no firm release date, but the timing is suspicious in a good way. New Walmart streaming sticks have already been spotted on store shelves before their official announcement. So, this Gemini speaker could pop up at your local store sooner rather than later.
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