Google to provide free UK phone calls through Home smart speaker

Tech firm is first to offer calls to UK mobile and landline numbers without charge, as battle for the home intensifies

Google has started offering free voice calls through its Home smart speakers to UK landlines and mobile phones, bringing it in line with US offerings.

Following an update rolling out this week, Google's Home and Home Mini smart speakers will be able to place calls to ordinary UK numbers over its wifi connection, for hands-free phone calls. It doesn't need a mobile phone to work, unlike some rival systems.