Google is quietly breathing new life into its Nest Mini and Nest Audio smart speakers — and it’s doing it with color. A new firmware update is rolling out that changes the familiar white lights on your speakers into a swirl of soft, rainbow-like hues inspired by Gemini, Google’s next-generation AI assistant.
A Subtle but Smart Update
This unexpected update is more than a cosmetic tweak — it’s a hint of what’s to come. Google has begun rolling out the firmware (version 3.77.500695) to users in its Preview Program. Now, when you say “Hey Google,” your Nest Mini or Nest Audio will briefly flash a set of rainbow-colored lights before switching to the usual white animation.
The colorful lights mirror Gemini’s signature palette — a visual cue that Google’s AI future is edging closer to your home devices. It’s a small, friendly reminder that something bigger is on the horizon: the arrival of Gemini for Home, launching in the US on October 28.
Why This Matters
At first glance, flashing lights might not seem like a big deal. But it shows that Google hasn’t forgotten its existing lineup of smart speakers. While many tech brands push new hardware each year, Google is signaling long-term support — and a future where even older Nest devices can enjoy new features and a fresh feel.
It’s also a glimpse at how Gemini for Home will likely integrate across Google’s ecosystem. The lights are a branding bridge, helping existing Nest owners recognize when their devices start tapping into Gemini’s smarter, more conversational capabilities.
How to Get the Gemini-Inspired Update
Right now, this visual update is exclusive to members of Google’s Preview Program. If you’d like to see the colorful light animation early, you can sign up for the program through the Google Home app. Once you’re enrolled, your speaker will automatically receive the latest firmware when it’s available in your region.
Actionable Tip
If you own multiple Google speakers, group them in the Google Home app under a single room or zone (like “Kitchen” or “Living Room”). This not only helps with synchronized music playback but will also keep your devices on the same firmware track — so new visual and voice updates arrive consistently.
Gemini for Home: What’s Coming Next
This update is part of a larger rollout tied to Gemini for Home, Google’s upgraded AI experience that’s designed to be more natural, helpful, and personalized. When it launches, Gemini will be able to answer more open-ended questions, manage routines, and even offer follow-up suggestions — all with a smoother, more conversational tone.
Google has confirmed that Gemini for Home will come to every Google smart home device released in the last decade. That includes your trusty Nest Mini and Nest Audio, meaning you won’t need to buy a new speaker to benefit from the upgrade.
However, more advanced features will live behind a Google Home Premium subscription. Pricing starts at around $10 / £8 per month, or $100 / £80 annually for the Standard tier. An Advanced tier will also be available for roughly double that price. Google hasn’t yet shared Australian pricing, but it’s expected to be in line with existing Nest Aware plans.
Google’s Smart Home Revival
This light-filled firmware update is also arriving alongside other major moves in Google’s smart home lineup. The company recently announced a new AI-powered video doorbell and security cameras, as well as plans to launch a next-generation Google Home Speaker (dropping the “Nest” name) in spring 2026.
The upcoming speaker promises 360-degree sound and full Gemini integration — letting users hold natural conversations, manage smart home devices, and access AI-generated insights all from one place. But until that arrives, Google’s subtle visual upgrade is a fun, low-key reminder that your existing Nest speakers are far from obsolete.
The Bottom Line
While it might seem like a small change, the new colored lights on Google’s Nest speakers mark an exciting transition. They connect today’s devices to the AI-powered experiences of tomorrow — all without requiring new hardware.
If you’ve got a Nest Mini or Nest Audio, keep an eye (and ear) out for the update. And if you’re eager to get in early, joining Google’s Preview Program will give you a front-row seat to the evolution of Gemini for Home.
Discover more ways to upgrade your smart home at HavenIQ.com.