Your dusty Nest and Home speakers just got a surprise firmware lifeline

androidcentral.com Oct 15, 2026

Your dusty Nest and Home speakers just got a surprise firmware lifeline

Curated by Shubham · TechCapsules · Oct 15, 2026

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Google has released firmware version 3.79.550760 for its older Nest speakers, including the original Google Home, Home Mini, Nest Mini, and Nest Audio. The update is available through the Home Preview Program and aims to improve smart‑home integration and reliability. It does not cover the Home Max. Users can enroll via the Home app, after which the firmware installs automatically overnight. Google plans a broader rollout in the coming weeks, with an additional October update targeting Gemini and voice‑control features.

💡 Why It Matters

· The update extends the life of legacy Nest devices, allowing users to keep functional smart speakers without purchasing new hardware.
· It demonstrates Google’s ongoing commitment to supporting older products amid rapid platform evolution.

Read full article on androidcentral.com

Latest HomePods can output Mac system audio in compatible configurations

Apple announced the HomePod mini 2, featuring an updated S10 chip and new audio capabilities. The device can now serve as a system audio output for Macs equipped with Wi‑Fi 6E, mirroring the functionality of the second‑generation HomePod. Compatible Macs include 2023‑2024 MacBook Pro, Air, iMac, Mac mini, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro models. Users can pair a stereo HomePod or HomePod mini 2 pair to route all system sounds, including notifications, to the speakers. The feature will be managed in System Settings → Sound, pending macOS updates.

💡 This integration expands the HomePod ecosystem into everyday computing, offering a seamless, high‑quality audio experience for Mac users without additional hardware. It also positions Apple’s smart speakers as a primary audio solution for professional and home environments.

windowscentral.com · Oct 14

Elgato releases new Wave Go wireless microphone — here’s how it works

Elgato has unveiled its first wireless microphone, the Wave Go, priced at $99.99. The device features a convertible design that functions as a clip‑on mic or a handheld interview mic, both connected to a phone via a USB‑C receiver. It offers studio‑level audio with automatic EQ, gain, and noise cancellation, and can run up to eight hours on a single charge, extending to 48 hours with its Smart Handle. The mic integrates with Elgato’s free Wave Link software for routing and effects.

💡 By combining portability with professional‑grade sound, the Wave Go lowers the barrier for creators to produce high‑quality audio on the go, potentially reshaping how livestreamers and podcasters manage field recordings.

appleinsider.com · Oct 14

Beats x Pokemon collaboration reveal Beats Pill with Pikachu and Mimikyu art

Beats by Dre, an Apple subsidiary, has released a limited‑edition Beats Pill speaker featuring Pikachu and Mimikyu artwork on the grill and custom packaging that displays the Pokémon’s ears. The gray speaker, priced at $149, retains standard Beats Pill specs: 24‑hour battery, IP67 resistance, and lossless USB‑C audio. The launch coincides with a new charms set for the lanyard, including a Pokéball, lightning bolt, and Beats “b” logo. Availability begins October 15 at Apple Stores and Target.

💡 The collaboration taps a massive fan base, turning a popular audio device into a collectible that blends tech and pop culture, potentially boosting sales and brand visibility.

9to5google.com · Oct 14

Nothing’s CMF launches new wireless speakers that look like milk cartons

Nothing’s CMF brand has introduced its first wireless speakers, the CMF Speaker S and CMF Speaker M, both styled like milk cartons. The S delivers 10 W output, 18‑hour battery life, and supports Google Fast Pair, stereo pairing, and party mode. The M adds a 25 W woofer, 10 W tweeter, and IP68 water resistance for outdoor use. Both use NFC pairing, the Nothing X app, and feature a customizable multi‑function knob. Prices start at $59 for the S and $109 for the M, available immediately.

💡 The milk‑carton design signals Nothing’s push into affordable, distinctive audio hardware, expanding its ecosystem beyond earbuds. This move could reshape how consumers perceive value and style in portable speakers.

appleinsider.com · Oct 14

There are better-sounding and cheaper options than four HomePods for surround sound

Apple launched a four‑speaker HomePod surround‑sound system with the new Apple TV 4K on October 13. The setup requires a $299 Apple TV 4K and four compatible HomePods—either two full‑size HomePods and two HomePod mini 2s, or four of the same model. Prices vary: two full‑size HomePods cost $698, two HomePod mini 2s add $298, and the Apple TV 4K brings the total to $1,295. Four HomePod mini 2s lower the cost to $895, while four full‑size HomePods reach $1,695. The feature auto‑calibrates audio timing and levels based on speaker placement.

💡 The high cost forces consumers to choose between Apple’s premium ecosystem and more affordable, feature‑rich alternatives, reshaping the home‑audio market.

ign.com · Oct 13

The Steelseries Arctis Nova Pro Omni Gaming Headset With Infinite Battery Life…

Steelseries released the Arctis Nova Pro Omni headset in May, offering cross‑platform compatibility, a hot‑swappable battery, active noise cancelation, and a GameDAC with LC3+ codec. The model retains the premium sound and comfort of its predecessor while adding OmniPlay, enabling simultaneous connections to up to four devices via USB, Bluetooth, and line‑in. The headset is priced at $400, but a coupon code “SSPOUT20” lowers the price to $319.99, saving 20% and making the high‑end model more accessible.

💡 The discount turns a premium gaming accessory into a viable option for serious players, potentially reshaping the market for high‑end headsets.