I can't wait for Apple to show Google how to make a better smart speaker

For years, an avid user of Google's smart home ecosystem has invested time and money into building a setup around the company's products. However, the user has repeatedly been disappointed with the performance of Google's speakers and displays. These devices often fail to function properly, with commands not working, responses taking too long, and lacking basic features. The user has also expressed dissatisfaction with Google's advertising tactics.

With Apple's new HomeView smart home hub and HomePod Mini 2 combo, Apple is entering the market and challenging Google's dominance. Apple's first display-equipped smart speaker and the upgraded HomePod mini signal that the company is serious about the category and could pose a real threat to Google. The user hopes this will serve as a wake-up call for Google.

The user's initial experiences with Google's smart home setup were impressive, with commands being reliable and easy to use. However, the current experience is far from satisfactory. Google has done little to refresh its hardware, with the Nest Hub Max being discontinued and no clear successor. The market for smart home devices has grown significantly, with numerous third-party options available. While the Google Home Speaker offers some improvements, the overall experience remains inconsistent.

Apple's approach to the smart home market is appealing because it addresses many of the user's pain points. A dedicated display with proper multi-user support would greatly enhance the user experience, allowing for seamless interaction across a household. Local control and deeper automation reduce reliance on voice commands, offering a more efficient and personalized experience. Privacy concerns are also addressed, with Apple's Private Compute architecture ensuring that user data is not used to train AI models.

While upgrades to Google's hardware are welcome, Apple's HomeView offers a more compelling solution. The 7-inch Liquid Retina display, aluminum design, and speaker base make it a premium product. The wall-mounted option is also a valuable addition for quick access toggles. However, the user is more interested in how the HomeView integrates with Apple's broader smart home ecosystem.

Apple's Home feature supports automations based on inputs like when the user arrives home or unlocks a door. The company's use of Thread and Matter support ensures local control as a first-class citizen, providing a more streamlined and private smart home experience.