Early Google Home Speaker Unboxing Reveals a Surprising USB-C Cable Design Choice
Google’s new Home Speaker has only just arrived, but an early retail purchase has already revealed one detail that may frustrate some buyers: the power cable is permanently attached to the speaker.
The new Google Home Speaker, priced at $99.99, marks Google’s first fresh smart speaker release in six years. It follows the Nest Audio from 2020 and brings several modern upgrades, including Gemini Live support, 360-degree audio, a 58mm full-range driver, WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.4. On paper, it looks like a strong return to the smart speaker market.
However, an early buyer who found the device on a Walmart shelf before the official shipping date shared an unboxing and first impressions online, and one design decision quickly became the biggest talking point.
According to the buyer, the Google Home Speaker uses a USB-C power cable that is hardwired directly into the speaker body. The cable is around 5 feet long and connects to a removable 30W power adapter. While the power brick can be replaced, the cable itself cannot be unplugged from the speaker because there is no USB-C port on the unit.
That means if the cable becomes damaged, users cannot simply swap it out for another USB-C cable. It could also be inconvenient for anyone who wants a longer cable, a shorter cable, or a cleaner cable-routing setup. Without opening or modifying the device, there does not appear to be an easy way to replace the attached cable.
For a modern smart speaker, this is an unusual choice. Many users expect USB-C-powered devices to have a standard removable cable, especially for easier repairs and better long-term usability. The early buyer described the setup as a major downside for repairability.
The good news is that the speaker’s audio performance appears to be promising. The early owner, who said they have experience with professional audio gear, praised the Google Home Speaker’s midrange and low-end sound. They said the speaker performs better than expected for its compact size and gets loud enough to fill a living room.
They also mentioned that the treble may benefit from a small boost in the audio settings, but overall impressions of the sound were positive. Setup was reportedly simple as well, taking less than 10 minutes through an existing Google Home account.
Another possible concern involves the speaker’s exterior fabric. The buyer noted that the mesh covering felt somewhat loose against the hard shell underneath. It is not yet clear whether this is a widespread build quality issue or just something specific to that early unit.
The Google Home Speaker is available in four color options: Porcelain, Hazel, Jade, and Berry. Basic Gemini Live features are included at no extra cost, but users who want smart home automations and more advanced AI features will need a $10-per-month plan. Camera feed analysis is available through a higher $20-per-month subscription.
Overall, the new Google Home Speaker appears to offer strong sound, modern connectivity, and deeper AI integration at a competitive price. Still, the permanently attached USB-C cable may be a drawback for buyers who care about repairability, cable flexibility, and long-term durability.
