Google is giving its older Nest and Home speakers some much-needed attention

Google is preparing a firmware update for some of its older smart speakers, bringing improvements to audio streaming, Wi-Fi connectivity, Google Assistant, and smart home controls.

The update is currently being tested through the Google Home Preview Program, while a separate October update is also bringing improvements to Gemini for Home and the Google Home app.

Firmware version 3.79.550760 for the original Google Home, Google Home Mini, Nest Mini, and Nest Audio includes improvements to audio and media streaming, volume controls, device setup, Wi-Fi connectivity, smart home controls, and overall performance and stability.

The update also lists improvements to the Google Assistant experience, but what Google presumably means is Gemini.

For owners of these older speakers, the changes could make voice commands and conversations more reliable, from controlling connected devices to streaming music. However, Google hasn’t detailed the specific changes or confirmed when the firmware will reach all users.

The update is currently limited to those who have signed up for the Preview Program, with a wider rollout expected to follow testing.

Owners can check their eligibility through the Google Home app by opening their speaker’s settings and navigating to Device information > Preview program. Eligible devices will get the updates automatically.