Google opens 'Gemini built in' program to third-party speaker manufacturers with turnkey reference designs

Google is expanding its "Gemini built in" program to include speaker reference designs, allowing third-party manufacturers to build Gemini-powered smart speakers. The expansion, announced following Google I/O 2026, builds on the company's existing camera reference design program that launched affordable Gemini cameras through Walmart's Onn brand.

What's new

Google's "Gemini built in" program now offers two reference designs:

• Camera Reference Design: Continues the existing program that enables "high-performance, Gemini-capable cameras" with shortened development cycles
• Speaker Reference Design (new for 2026): Allows manufacturers to build "high-fidelity speakers that support the full Gemini voice experience, acting as the command center for the home"

The reference designs provide all necessary hardware specifications, effectively offering turnkey solutions for manufacturers who want to ship Gemini-enabled devices without building the technology stack from scratch.

First partners

Walmart appears to be among the first partners for the speaker program. An Onn-branded Gemini smart speaker recently leaked, suggesting imminent availability through Walmart's budget-friendly electronics line. The Onn camera line, which launched under the same program in 2025, offered remarkably affordable pricing compared to Nest hardware.

Google also announced that AT&T will integrate Google Home Premium and Gemini features into its Connected Life security service, including Nest Cam AI capabilities. AT&T first announced Google integration for Connected Life in late 2025.

Developer access expands

Google is opening access to the development tools behind "Ask Home" and Nest Cam's intelligent scene recognition. According to Google, these are "the same tools" used to build Gemini's smart home features. The company is also allowing carriers and internet service providers to integrate Google Home Premium functionality into their apps and services.

Pricing for devices built on the reference designs has not been disclosed. Google's own "Google Home Speaker" remains without a firm release date.

What this means

This marks Google's return to the third-party smart speaker ecosystem strategy it used during the Google Assistant era, but now powered by Gemini. By providing reference designs rather than requiring full custom development, Google can rapidly expand Gemini's presence in homes through budget-conscious manufacturers like Walmart. The approach mirrors Google's Android strategy: provide the core technology, let partners handle manufacturing and distribution. If Onn's camera pricing is any indication, expect significantly cheaper Gemini speakers than Google's own hardware, potentially accelerating voice AI adoption in price-sensitive markets.