Google has filed an FCC application for a mysterious new “wireless device” – suggesting that a never-before-seen smart home product could be on the horizon.
As first seen by droidlife (opens in new tab)The archiving (opens in new tab) refers to an “engineering sample” (under model number G28DR) that supports WiFi and Bluetooth functionality. It also features an image detailing a rectangular-shaped product that, according to the accompanying description, is powered by a connected power supply or a battery.
Droidlife suggests that the product in question could be a new entry in Google’s ever-expanding Nest line – which currently comprises speakers, smart displays, doorbells, security cameras and thermostats – and given its presumptive shape, the device mysterious certainly fits that mold.
You can check out the granular details of the archiving through the image below:
As Droidlife notes, there’s a chance the device doesn’t have a screen – a theory borne out by its speaker shape – further suggesting it could be a new addition to Google’s smart home range.
Beyond that, though, your guess is as good as ours. An elaborate alarm clock? A squeezed thermostat?
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One detail stands out to us and perhaps offers a hint of the type of device we’re looking at here.
Most smart home gadgets are AC powered, which means they plug into your wall. A handful of outdoor smart security cameras support DC or battery operation. There’s no indication here, however, of a camera, let alone a screen.
The combination of battery-powered and Bluetooth operation points to some sort of handheld device. Maybe even an external, weatherproof Google Nest Audio device. However, with no mention of speakers or audio output, this seems unlikely.
With all these antennas, including the PIFA (Planar Inverted-F Antenna) which is often used on mobile devices, perhaps this is an external WiFi extender, designed to work with Google’s WiFi mesh network system.
This is, of course, all speculation. These specs could be part of a larger, yet-announced device from Google.
Whatever it is, we’ll be keeping an eye on this mysterious new model as it progresses through the development process.