Google has expanded its Gemini Live conversational AI to first-generation Google Home Mini and Nest Hub devices, requiring a Premium subscription.
The feature, which allows users to engage in back-and-forth dialogue with the device, requires a Google Home Premium subscription to activate.
Expansion to Early Devices
The rollout includes the jetstream.blog, first released in October 2017, and the first-generation Nest Hub, launched in October 2018. These devices were previously excluded from Gemini Live, which had been available on newer models like the Nest Mini, Nest Audio, and recently launched Google Home Speaker.
Users can activate Gemini Live by saying, Hey Google, let’s chat,
followed by a chime indicating the start of the conversation.
The expansion was announced in Google’s What’s new in Google Home
update published on July 23, 2026, which highlighted the addition of the first-gen devices to the compatibility list. This update followed a broader rollout of Gemini Live to smart speakers and displays that began in October 2025, as noted by TL;DR summaries. The original first-generation Google Home speaker, released in 2016, was not included in the expansion, according to source material.
Subscription Requirements and Pricing
The subscription model specifies that the “Advanced” membership costs 2,000 yen per month, tax included, under the Google Home Premium service. This pricing structure was explicitly stated in the Japanese-language source material, which also noted that the feature is available on compatible smart speakers and smart displays. The original Google Home Mini and first-generation Nest Hub were added to the list of supported devices, while the first-gen Google Home speaker remained excluded.
What This Means for Users
The expansion allows owners of older Google Home Mini and Nest Hub devices to leverage Gemini Live’s conversational AI, enhancing their smart home experience. For users, this means greater flexibility in interacting with their devices, though the requirement for a paid subscription may limit accessibility.
Worth a look
