At the latest Made by Google event the Californian search giant unveiled a range of new products including a new mesh Wi-Fi network: Google Nest WiFi.
This is essentially a follow-up to the previous Google Wifi, but under the new Google Nest branding which now covers all of the company’s Google Assistant-powered smart home tech. It’s also had a redesign to bring in softer curves, a simpler aesthetic, and a few welcome colour options.
When is the Google Nest WiFi release date?
The Nest WiFi releases in both the US and UK on 4 November, but you can order it from Google.
Read our Google Nest Wifi review.
How much does the Nest WiFi cost?
You’ll be able to grab the Router alone for £149/$169, a two-pack of a Router and Point for £239/$269, and a three-pack with a Router and two Points for $349 – though that last set isn’t available in the UK.
The Point will also be sold separately for £129/$149, but that’ll be online-only to avoid confusion, since without a Router none of its mesh Wi-Fi functionality will work.
What are the new specs & features?
That mention of the Google Assistant is no accident – the biggest addition to Nest WiFi is that it essentially doubles up as a set of Nest Mini speakers, packing far-field microphones and speakers directly into the hardware.
There’s no speaker in the Router – the part that connects directly into your phone line – but the second device, the Point doubles not only to expand your Wi-Fi coverage but also to spread the Google Assistant around the house. The audio capabilities are the same as in the Nest Mini, also announced today, and it also has a physical microphone mute switch for when you don’t want Google listening in.
In terms of tech specs, the main Router has a 4×4 radio for Wi-Fi, together with Bluetooth and a thread radio for controlling your smart home devices. Each Point has a 2×2 radio, the same Bluetooth and thread capabilities, and a machine-learning chip to help power the Google Assistant on-device.
Author: Dominic Preston, Deputy Editor
Tech Advisor's Deputy Editor, Dom covers everything that runs on electricity, from phones and laptops to wearables, audio, gaming, smart home, and streaming - plus he's a regular fixture on the Tech Advisor YouTube channel.