Google is likely in the process of adding new functionality to the next version of its currently available smart speaker, Google Home. Google Home 2.0 will reportedly be presenting some new features to customers that should make it relatively unique. As it stands, the device's rival from Amazon, Amazon Echo, is becoming quite popular and Google needs to step up its game to ensure it dominates the particular market.
According to a report from CNBC, Google may be planning to integrate a mesh Wi-Fi networking feature into the next Google Home device. This would essentially make it function like Google's own Google Wifi, making it function as a networking router.
Additionally, the networking technology would allow users to boost the Wi-Fi coverage in their homes by using multiple Google Home devices, as per a report from The Information. If a router is already present the device can also function as a repeater to further increase the Wi-Fi's signal is certain areas of a user's home. This is similar to how Google Wifi currently works.
Google previously explained that a single Google Wifi device can cover up to 1,500 square foot. However, using three Google Wifi devices would expand that area to 4,500 square feet via a seamless mesh Wi-Fi network. If Google does decide to integrate the same technology into the new Google Home 2.0, then it could essentially work with existing Google Wifi access points.
The Google Wifi access point currently cost the same as the Google Home base station. If Google does decide to add the mesh Wi-Fi network functionality into the Google Home and keep the same pricing, buying the similarly priced access point wouldn't really make sense anymore. This may lead to Google discontinuing the product in the near future.
Amazon's Echo smart speaker currently does not offer this functionality, but reports are suggesting that the company may be looking into integrating it into the next version. As per a report from BGR, Amazon is currently offering an Echo Dot package that includes a mesh Wi-Fi enabled Netgear Orbi system for $371.
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