Google Launches The Nest Hub Max Smart Display
At the Google I/O 2019 developers conference, the company showcased a variety of new services(1) and the long-anticipated Pixel 3a smartphone duo. Additionally, it launched the Nest Hub Max smart display which succeeds the Home Hub launched last year. The company has announced the products under the home category that will be branded in the Nest lineup starting with the new Nest Hub Max.
Nest Hub Max
The new Google Nest Hub Max is a smart display with a built-in speaker and Google Assistant. Unlike the previously launch Home Hub, the device features a front facing camera which can be used to make video calls via the company owned Duo video calling service. The camera uses a wide-angle Sony IMX277 sensor which combined with software algorithms can track and keep faces in the centre of the frame during video calls. Notably, this is the same sensor present on the GoPro Hero 7 Black action camera. The key highlight of the product is the 10 inch LCD display with an HD resolution; which is significantly larger than the 7-inch one found in its predecessor.
The Nest Hub Max also supports gesture recognition which can be used to play/pause the music or video without the need of speaking out a command. It also has a switch on the back which can be toggled to disable both the camera and the dual microphones on the device. The company has implemented the feature to address the ever-increasing security concerns of installing a microphone and a camera in a household gadget. Additionally, the Nest Hub can play videos via YouTube and is capable of recognizing individuals in a family. The device can then give out individually specific briefing relevant to the person interacting with it.
Pricing and Availability
Also read: Google Launches The Pixel 3a & Pixel 3a XL Smartphones
The Nest Hub Max will be available for purchase in the US, UK and Australia later this summer. It has been priced at US$ 229 (Rs. 15,900) and can be purchased from the official Google Store. Furthermore, the company is also launching the last generation Home Hub in 12 new countries including India. The device has been discounted to US$ 129 (Rs. 9,000), down from its original price of US$ 149 (Rs. 10,400).
