“Alexa, remind me of calling my Mom tomorrow”. “Hey Google, what’s the weather like next week?” This or something similar is already the case in many households. What sounded like a sci-fi film a few years ago has now become reality. Artificial intelligence accepts commands and switches the light on or off for us, among other things. Or play our desired music. It doesn’t take much, just a smart speaker, an internet connection, and WiFi-enabled devices like light bulbs, to name just one example. But which smart speaker should you choose? We clarify.
Smart speaker bestseller
With the smart speaker bestseller list, you can quickly see the most popular and best-selling smart speakers. Since everyone has different requirements and also uses a different operating system, you should give some thought to buying a smart speaker. At the end of the article you will find a guide with the most important information about the purchase.
Smart Speaker buying guide
Since their inception, smart speakers like the Amazon Echo and Google Home have been able to provide weather reports, timers and much more when called up by voice command. But when it comes to playing music, the individual models differ quite a bit from each other. Many could not do this at all in the past, or only to a very limited extent. That has changed over time. On some models, such as the Apple HomePod, only music from Apple Music can be played. Apple’s HomePods don’t currently support Spotify or any other music streaming service.
It started with the launch of the Amazon Echo Studio, Sonos One and the now-discontinued Google Home Max speakers, which are not only smart, but sound quality too. This improvement has impacted cheaper models like the latest Amazon Echo and Google Nest Audio, which now boast a significant improvement in sound quality over their predecessors.
At the same time, the range of functions has become more versatile. Smart speakers can do a lot more these days. They will also be equipped with touchscreens and screens, making them even more versatile.
Choose your smart speaker ecosystem
Think of a smart speaker as a hub in a larger digital environment in your home. Most models require a mobile app on a smartphone or tablet to perform basic setup. All options work together with cloud-based artificial intelligence (AI) that controls everything. From music streaming to the speaker’s ability to connect to other smart devices, from smart light bulbs to internet-enabled fridges. However, smart speakers work best with other products from the same manufacturer.
So before choosing a smart speaker, you need to decide which digital groups you belong to: Amazon, Apple or Google?
Amazon Echo
Alexa still enjoys something of a first-mover advantage. That means you can find a wide range of third-party tasks – or “skills” in Alexa parlance. Many devices can be connected to Alexa, which is an advantage. Alexa-powered devices are also well-integrated into the Amazon Prime universe, with features like the Amazon Music service and the online retailer’s extensive shopping tools.
Google Nest-Audio
Google lags behind Amazon in terms of the size of its “action library” and the number of compatible smart home devices. However, some consumers prefer Google’s digital assistant as they find it more intuitive to use. It also leverages the tech giant’s impressive search capabilities. Google Home’s ability to easily integrate with Google devices like Chromecast streaming players is another plus. Many third-party devices can also be controlled using a Google Smart Speaker.
Apple HomePod Mini
According to various testers, Apple’s HomePod lacks the full Siri experience that other iOS products offer. You’ll find far fewer smart home devices compatible with the speaker. They are also significantly more expensive compared to other Smart Home compatible devices. It is well known that Siri is not the smartest AI either, but it collects the least data, which is good for your privacy. On the other hand, if you’re deeply embedded in the Apple universe, with a subscription to Apple Music and a home full of iPhones, MacBooks, and HomeKit devices, the Apple HomePod is a very good choice.
Which Smart Speak turns your home into a Smart Home? Leave us a comment and tell us about your experiences.
