Google Home speakers reportedly consume excessive background data

Some Google Home speakers are continuously downloading massive amounts of background data from company servers, 9to5Google reported. Over the past week, several users noticed that their devices consumed significant bandwidth even while sitting idle without active streaming or voice commands. [1]

In one documented case, a single Google Home speaker consumed 17 GB of data within 24 hours while not in active use, according to 9to5Google. The outlet noted that almost 10 GB downloaded at 3 a.m. PT alone, with the same device using 41 GB on October 13. [1]

The massive downloads could be tied to repeated failed attempts by the device to download firmware updates, 9to5Google reported. Related coverage from Tech Advisor separately noted that older Google Home and Nest speakers are receiving upgrades. [1][2]

The excessive background data consumption poses potential issues for users who have strict data caps on their home internet plans, as 9to5Google indicated the downloads occur continuously in the background. [1]