Does the Original Google Home Still Work as a PC Speaker?
Yes. The Google Home (1st gen) uses Google Cast, and PC Nest Speaker works with any Cast-enabled device. It doesn't matter that the hardware is from 2016 — the streaming protocol is the same. Your Google Home will receive all Windows audio just like a current Nest Audio would.
Google Home speaker specs:
2-inch driver, 2× 2-inch passive radiators. Loud enough for a room, with reasonable bass for its size. Cast support: yes, fully functional.
Why Chrome Casting Isn't Enough
Chrome's cast feature sends one browser tab's audio to your Google Home. That's it. If you want to:
- Play the Spotify desktop app through Google Home
- Use Google Home for Discord call audio
- Route game audio through Google Home
- Have system notifications play through Google Home
...Chrome casting can't do any of that. PC Nest Speaker captures Windows audio at the OS level, so everything goes through — not just one browser tab.
How to Set It Up
Download PC Nest Speaker
Install on Windows 10 or 11. 10-hour free trial, no account required.
Same Wi-Fi network
Your PC and Google Home need to be on the same Wi-Fi network. No special configuration needed.
Select your Google Home
The app discovers all Cast devices automatically. Click your Google Home — audio streams immediately.
Using Google Home Alongside PC Speakers
PC Nest Speaker includes a sync mode: it delays your PC's built-in speakers to match the Google Home's Cast latency, so both play in perfect time with no echo. This lets you use your Google Home as supplemental audio — bass from the PC speakers, volume fill from the Google Home — without any phasing.
FAQ
Does Google Home still get software updates in 2026?
Google has wound down active development for the original Google Home, but Cast functionality continues to work. PC Nest Speaker will work with it as long as Cast is supported.
Can I use Google Home and a newer Nest speaker together?
Yes — PC Nest Speaker lets you stream to multiple Cast devices simultaneously, regardless of generation or model.
Is there a free trial?
Yes — 10 hours of full-feature use, no credit card required.
Try PC Nest Speaker free
10-hour trial, no credit card. Your Google Home becomes a proper PC speaker in under a minute.
Download Free Trial