Smart choices
Now with better audio quality, these multi-talented little devices are a more enticing prospect than ever
Once upon a time, your hi-fi kit could perform one simple task. Now, whether it’s all-in-one streaming systems or voice-controlled wireless earbuds, multifunctionality is the future – and none is more futuristic or multi-talented than a smart speaker.
When these little gadgets first brought voice control and artificial intelligence into our homes just a few years ago, audio quality wasn’t their main selling point. Instead, people were won over by their convenience and the novelty of having a speaker capable of answering your questions, setting alarms and playing games.
Of course, they played music from your favourite streaming service, but the ability to control your TV and turn on your lights meant that those earlier designs prioritised many other things above sound quality. However, with the newer versions of these smart speakers, the focus has been switched. No longer smart devices that play music, these are now speakers that can also turn your heating up.
On test here, we have three of the best smaller smart speakers. First up is the Apple Homepod Mini, which at just 8cm tall and 10cm wide, certainly lives up to its name. Summon Siri to play your tunes, amid a swirling orb of coloured lights, and you realise you have a classy performer on your hands. Next, we have the Amazon Echo Dot (4th Generation), the latest version of Amazon’s most popular and affordable Echo device. Could this be the most compelling case yet for choosing Alexa?
Finally, we test the Google Nest Audio. Google’s new Nest-branded smart speaker has now been given the suffix ‘Audio’, suggesting that the Californian giant is keen to highlight how splendid its latest voice-activated device actually sounds, rather than simply what its Google Assistant can do.
Of course, the ecosystem you use most may sway your choices here – if you use Google Calendar, Maps or Gmail, then maybe the Google product would suit you best. Like shopping at Amazon? An Echo Dot might be right up your street. So, with sound quality improving all the time, and the range of tasks and functions these smart speakers can perform only getting bigger, which of these three is the best option if you want to start making your home smarter?