It looks like earlier reports about the Google Home Hub were confirmed today during Google’s earlier event. The device features a 7-inch touch display, laid out horizontally and attached to a base (which is also its speaker) that is wrapped in a very pretty looking cloth-like material.
As many would expect of the device, the Home Hub is designed to act like a personal assistant to its owner. Of course, this is all done via the the on-board Google Assistant, which enables the Home Hub to perform a variety of tasks. Such as addressing the user’s question by pulling related material directly from the internet, to playing a YouTube video that shows you how to make your favourite dish.
One thing about the Home Hub is that it doesn’t have a built-in camera at the front. This is a deliberate move by Google, and it was done in an effort to create a device that users would feel comfortable placing in the “private spaces” of their homes. Without the worrying needlessly if the device’s security has been compromised.
In place of a camera, Google has equipped an Ambient EQ light sensor that automatically adjusts the display’s brightness based on the lighting in the room. This allows the Home Hub to display your photos (taken from Google Photos, naturally) at brightness level that suits the time of day. Rather than just leaving at a set brightness level, which can be quite distracting.
Moving on, the Home Hub can also act as a central node of a connected home. This means that users are able to control the majority of their smart appliances and home entertainment devices. Provided that these devices are compatible with the Home Hub. That really shouldn’t be an issue though, considering Google says that its product is compatible with over 10000 types of smart devices, made by more than 1000 brands.
As an example, some of these devices includes a thermostat from Nest, smart lightbulbs from Philips’ Hue range, and even a virtual TV remote from Vizio. But that’s not all: Google has also created a Home app for mobile, which essentially gives you the same controls as the Home Hub. Allowing you to control your device while away from home.
The Google Home Hub will first be sold in the US, Canada, and the UK. Users in the regions can pre-order the device from the Google Store starting today. The device will then be physically available for purchase on 22 October 2018, and will retail for US$149 (~RM619).
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