However, while the Nest Hub can be used to make audio calls, there’s no camera here – unlike on the Amazon Echo Show 8 – so video calls are off the menu. Ask for the weather, for example, and as well as Google Assistant telling you the current temperature, an hour-by-hour breakdown will be displayed. As well as an audible response to questions and commands, extra information will be displayed on the screen. Google Assistant is built into the smart display, enabling you to set timers, get the latest weather or news headlines, and even control your smart gadgets like smart lights or smart plugs with your voice (you can also do all of this by swiping and tapping on the display).
Similarly, the screen quality won’t blow you away, but if you want a larger screen than your smartphone to run video in the background, it will do the job. While Google claims the new Hub offers 50% better bass than its predecessor, don’t expect a thumping, room-filling sound – it’ll suffice if you’re using it for background audio though. You can also watch Netflix and Disney+ on the 7-inch screen, or listen to various streaming services on its speaker.
When you’re not using the smart display it will display a clock face, or it can be used as a digital photo frame, serving up your albums from Google Photos.