Google's $99 Speaker Hides Best Features Behind Paywall

Google's new Home Speaker brings Gemini AI to your living room at a $99 entry price. Early 2026 reviews suggest the base experience is competent, but the standout features require a $10 monthly subscription. This creates a familiar tension for budget-conscious buyers: the upfront cost is reasonable, but the full value proposition depends on ongoing payments. Whether the speaker justifies its price hinges largely on how much you're willing to spend beyond that initial purchase.