The rumours were already swirling that Google would introduce a smaller version of its Google Home smart speaker later today, but a listing error from US-based supermarket Walmart now all but-confirms it.
Measuring 4.53 x 4.53 x 4.72 inches and weighing under a pound, the new sister product to the Google Home will be released on Thursday October 19, 2017 and be priced at $49.99 (£37). This is according to pre-order page the supermarket giant made live by error a day ahead of schedule yesterday – effectively ruining Google’s party a little.
The Google Home Mini (known as codename “Joplin” until this point) will reportedly be available in chalk, charcoal and coral colours. Described as a “powerful little helper” in the product bio, it will come with all the functionality its predecessor does, just in a more compact, cheaper package.
Crucially its price point puts it at the same level as the Echo Dot, allowing Google to reach a bigger audience in its quest to peg back Amazon’s dominance in the market.
The news follows the big launch of 3 new Echo speakers by Amazon last week.