This little speaker acts as a hub for all things Google in your house; hands free calling, entertainment, pro-active assistant, integration with other devices, music play, among others.
Similar competitors include the Amazon Echo or the Panasonic SC-GA10. Both of which have very similar functions, fetch music from similar sources and are stumped when voice commanded by a similar set of questions.
In addition to these ‘all-rounder’ Smart home devices, there are also an increasing number of devices that work more specifically for different home functions by adding intelligence, automation or remote connectivity. Some of which are all about making your life easier, but there are also some that are designed to help you save money, improve the security in your house, or give increased safety in the home.
For example the Be On Starter Pack. Which is one of the best reviewed smart security lighting systems. This device is basically an intelligent light bulb that keeps shining when the power goes out, turns on automatically when it ‘hears’ your doorbell or alarm, and even replays your typical lighting patterns when you're not home, thus adding a great security feature quite simply. Similarly, August’s Smart Home Lock is a smart lock that is installed into the door of the home and allows the user to control the lock from their phone. It adds smarts to the deadbolt you already have.