LG ThinQ release date, specs news: Google Assistant-powered smart speaker announced ahead of CES 2018

A promotional image for the LG ThinQ smart speaker.LG

LG has announced the ThinQ, a smart speaker that is powered by Google Assistant. The premium audio device will be showcased at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) next week.

According to LG, the ThinQ is powered by Meridian Audio technology which helps deliver a natural and warm sound. It also comes with High Resolution Audio, making the smart speaker compatible with high-quality lossless files. This means that the ThinQ will be able to faithfully reproduce sounds the way there were originally recorded in the studio.

As a Google Assistant-powered smart speaker, users will be able to issue voice commands to search for certain topics, learn about the weather, play songs and find out navigation routes, among others. LG collaborated with Google to ensure that the digital assistant is able to perform all its abilities and that the smart speaker has complete access to the search engine giant's database.

The ThinQ can also be used to interact with LG's other smart home appliances, including refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, air conditioners and purifiers. The smart speaker will communicate with the SmartThinQ app, which adjusts the settings of the appliances. Users can issue commands such as, "OK Google, talk to LG, turn on the air purifier."

Aside from the ThinQ smart speaker, LG's 2018 speaker lineup includes a Dolby Atmos SK10Y sound bar, which produces 550W of output; the PK portable speaker series, with three Bluetooth-powered models that deliver dynamic sound while on the go; and party speakers, which come with 1,800W output, DJ capabilities, karaoke modes and lights.

"At this year's CES, I'm confident audiences will be impressed with the amount of technology we've introduced into our audio products without compromising on sound quality," said Seo Young-jae, head of convergence audio and video business at LG Home Entertainment Company.

The diverse range of premium audio products will be displayed at CES 2018, which will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Jan. 8 to 12.