Speculation is rising regarding a possible new addition to Google’s smart home lineup, and the timing seems a bit too coincidental.
A tweet by MacRumors’ analyst, Aaron, on X draws attention to a reference of an alleged new smart gadget within the company’s code (via 9to5Google). Aaron mentions that the find was made in the code of the Google Home app on iOS. Among the numerous strings, they stumbled upon a designation for “Google Home Display.” Furthermore, another string labeled “setup” was also noticed.
This label appeared alongside various other Google smart home devices, including the Nest Hub Max, Nest Hub, and Home Mini. Besides being listed with the smart home products we are familiar with, the publication’s analyst didn’t uncover anything more significant. Ultimately, all that remains is the supposed name of the device.
What is especially intriguing is the inclusion of a long-anticipated product: the Google Home Speaker. Its presence here prompts speculation, particularly since I/O 2026 is just around the corner.
Could I/O unveil more than we anticipate?
Let’s recall Google’s elaborate “Gemini for Home” announcement last fall. There was extensive discourse about how its AI aims to assist users at home, an endeavor we’ve observed it diligently pursue through its early access program. Nonetheless, one device introduced during that announcement, which we didn’t receive, was the Google Home Speaker. This compact speaker, featuring a color Gemini-coded ring light, was projected to debut in Spring 2026.
The Home Speaker was said to deliver 360-degree audio and connect with the TV Streamer. In addition, it was clear that Google designed this version specifically for Gemini. Its defining features include visual feedback and the capacity to interact with the AI. Anticipating Spring 2026 naturally leads us to consider I/O 2026. The critical question here is: will we witness this rumored “Home Display” hinted at during the keynote?
The team at 9to5 mentioned this as well, but an interview with the head of Google Home, Anish Kattukaran, following the Gemini for Home announcement carries significance. Kattukaran stated that Google was developing new “Nest Hub devices,” although a launch timeframe wasn’t specified. If we note the shift in naming with the “Home Speaker,” perhaps this leak contains some truth.
