Google has announced the 2nd-Generation Smart Display Nest Hub. The new model promises improved sleep tracking and better hardware.
The new Next Hub features an edge-less glass front and is built using recycled materials. It comes in four colors: Chalk, Charcoal, Sand, and Mist. At the front, it has motion sensors that let you play/pause music by just pointing your palm at the screen.
Google has also improved speakers with 50% more bass. It can also process some Assistant tasks on the device itself with an on-device machine learning chip.
The most notable feature is Sleep Sensing. It uses Soli low-energy radar located on the front of the device to track your body’s movements as you sleep. Google calls this feature “Motion Sense”. This feature can also track things like coughing and snoring, as well as light and temperature changes in the room using the microphone.
The device can only track the sleep of one person at a time and only if the person sleeps directly next to the device. The feature is completely optional.
Sleep Sensing will be available as a free preview till next year. The company is also looking to integrate it with Fitbit’s sleep tracking.
The 2nd Gen Nest Hub is priced at $100. It is now available to pre-order in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Germany, France and Australia.
