Google Home Speaker uses 99% less adhesive than Nest Audio [Gallery]
9to5 Google 2026-06-28 14:00:00
Context: The Google Home Speaker, a new device featuring a 3D-knit enclosure fabric and environmentally friendly design, has been found to use significantly less adhesive and materials compared to its predecessor, the Nest Audio. According to Google's environmental reports, the company has implemented a new approach to manufacturing the speaker, allowing for reduced waste and increased recyclability. This development is part of Google's efforts to create more sustainable products.
Key Facts
- The Google Home Speaker features a "tensioned 3D-knit enclosure fabric wrapped over a plastic housing without any adhesive," allowing the fabric to be partially stretched when handling the device.
- Compared to the Nest Audio, the Google Home Speaker uses "approximately 63% less material and 99% less adhesive," as stated in Google's Product Environmental Report.
- The new approach to manufacturing enables "manufacturing rework," allowing for the reuse of either the 3D fabric or plastic housing if a defect is found during assembly, reducing material yield waste and cost.
- The Google Home Speaker is made of "at least 37% recycled materials" based on product weight, including metal, rare earth materials, and plastic, while the packaging uses bamboo, molded fiber, and recycled newsprint.
- The included 30W USB-C adapter meets DOE Level VI, the "highest available efficiency rating for power adapters as defined in the International Efficiency Marking Protocol for External Power Supplies Version 3.0."