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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11If your Google Nest speaker or display is acting up, restart it first: unplug its power cord for one minute, then reconnect it. A factory reset is different—it erases device data, cannot be undone, and uses physical controls that vary by model. Use the reset only after less disruptive troubleshooting has failed.
Restart or factory reset: which should you use?
| Option | Best for | Effect | How to do it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restart (reboot) | Temporary glitches or an unresponsive device | Restarts the device; it is not a factory reset. | Unplug it for one minute, or use the Google Home app’s Reboot control. |
| Factory reset | Persistent problems after ordinary troubleshooting, or when you need to return the device to its original settings | Clears data from the device, cannot be undone, and disconnects it from home members. Some basic device data may remain associated with the home. | Use the physical controls for the exact model, then set up the device again. |
Google says you can’t use a voice command or the Google Home app to factory reset a speaker or display. The app can reboot it, but resetting requires the device’s buttons or reset control. Google’s factory-reset instructions and reboot instructions provide the current model and app details.
How to restart a Google Nest speaker or display
Restart by unplugging the power cord
- Unplug the speaker or display from power.
- Leave it unplugged for one minute.
- Reconnect the power cord and allow the device to start.
Restart from the Google Home app
- Make sure your phone or tablet and the speaker or display are linked to the same Google account.
- Open the Google Home app and go to Home > All devices.
- Touch and hold the device tile.
- Select Settings > More > Reboot.
Google Home app labels can change. If you cannot find the Reboot option, use the unplug-and-reconnect method instead.
Before you factory reset
- Confirm the model. The reset controls and hold times differ, so identify the device before starting.
- Understand the effect. A factory reset clears data from the device, cannot be undone, and disconnects it from home members. Google notes that some basic device data may remain associated with the home.
- Check device-specific data. For a Nest Hub Max, save any important video-history footage and remove the device from the Google Home app before resetting. For a Nest Hub (2nd gen), review your Sleep Sensing data first.
See Google’s factory-reset instructions if your device is not listed below or you need the latest directions.
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- IMMERSIVE 360° SOUND – Enjoy rich, room-filling audio with clear vocals, detailed highs, and deep bass designed to enhance music, podcasts, audiobooks, and more.
- DESIGNED FOR MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT – Enjoy your favorite music, podcasts, audiobooks, and more with room-filling sound and impressive audio clarity.
- STEREO PAIRING CAPABILITY – Pair two compatible speakers together for a wider soundstage and enhanced stereo performance throughout your space.
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Factory-reset instructions by model
Nest Audio
- Switch off the microphone on the back. Wait until the lights turn orange.
- Press and hold the center near the top. The reset starts after five seconds; keep holding for about ten more seconds, until you hear the confirmation sound.
Nest Mini (2nd gen)
- Switch off the microphone using the switch on the side.
- Press and hold the center of the top, where the lights are. The reset starts after five seconds; keep holding for about ten more seconds, until you hear the confirmation sound.
Nest Hub and Nest Hub (2nd gen)
- Press and hold both volume buttons on the back together for about ten seconds.
- Watch the display for the resetting indication.
If you have a Nest Hub (2nd gen), review Sleep Sensing data before resetting.
Nest Hub Max
- Save any important video-history footage.
- Remove the device from the Google Home app.
- Press and hold both rear volume buttons together for about ten seconds.
Google Home Max
Press and hold the reset button on the back, near the power cord, for about twelve seconds.
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Google Home Mini (1st gen)
- Find the factory-reset button on the bottom, below the power cord. It is the circle etched into the base.
- Press and hold it. The reset starts after five seconds; keep holding for about ten more seconds, until you hear the confirmation sound.
Google Home
Press and hold the microphone mute button on the back for about fifteen seconds. The device indicates that it is resetting.
Google Home Speaker (2026)
Google’s current factory-reset page lists this model with separate directions. Follow the live Google instructions for its reset sequence rather than applying another model’s button combination.
Rank #3
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If you are resetting because Wi-Fi changed
A factory reset is not usually the first step when your Wi-Fi network or password changes. Google says these speakers and displays remember one Wi-Fi network at a time. In the Google Home app, forget the existing Wi-Fi network for the device, then set it up on the new network. If the app cannot communicate with the device or the network-change steps fail, a factory reset followed by setup again may be necessary. Follow Google’s Wi-Fi setup instructions.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to do after a factory reset
Because the reset returns the device to factory settings and disconnects it from home members, add and set it up again in the Google Home app. If setup fails, use Google’s Wi-Fi and setup guidance before repeating a reset.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Whole-Home Smart Audio – Get powerful, room-filling sound in 3 rooms at once or group all three speakers together for seamless multi-room playback. Perfect for homes, apartments, or offices.
- Stereo Pairing & Grouping – Pair two speakers for immersive stereo sound or assign each to different areas (e.g., kitchen, living room, bedroom) for dynamic audio throughout your space.
- Hands-Free Voice Assistant – With Google Assistant built in, control music, get answers, set timers, check the weather, and control smart home devices with simple voice commands.
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Connectivity – Stream your favorite music from services like Spotify, YouTube Music, and more via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Works with Android, iOS, and Chromecast-enabled apps.
- Smart Home Ready – Nest Audio integrates with thousands of compatible smart home devices – use your voice to dim lights, control thermostats, lock doors, and more.
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