Google Unveils Camera-Free Home Hub to Rival Echo Show
Google introduces the Google Home Hub, a $149 smart display that intentionally omits a camera for enhanced privacy. The device features an adaptive screen and deep smart home integration, with retail availability starting October 22.
Google officially announces the Google Home Hub, a new smart display designed to compete directly with the Amazon Echo Show and Facebook Portal. In a surprising move for a company known for data collection, Google intentionally excludes a camera from the device to help users feel comfortable placing it in private spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms.
The device features Ambient EQ technology, which automatically adjusts the screen's brightness and color based on room lighting and turns the display off completely at night. Additionally, the Hub supports Voice Match to recognize different users and introduces a Home View panel that provides quick, centralized control over all connected smart home devices.
Priced at $149, the Google Home Hub represents an affordable entry into the smart display market. Consumers can pre-order the device starting today at Google's online store, with general retail availability scheduled for October 22. Google also offers an enticing promotion, giving buyers six free months of YouTube Premium with purchases made through December.