Google's Nest Refreshes Entire Product Line
Google's Nest Labs has refresehed and resedsigned its entire product portfolio with the introduction of Nest Cam, the second generation Nest Protect, new features for the Nest Learning Thermostat, and a brand new app. Google’s Nest unit is pouring resources into its product lineup to convince consumers they need to modernize their home gear with connected, intelligent devices as it competes with rivals such as Samsung Electronics and Apple.
The Nest Cam supports full high-definition (1080p) video quality over Wi-Fi. Video is streamed securely using a 128-bit SSL connection and be stored with a unique 2048-bit RSA. It also comes with a new stand, and improved motion alerts and night vision. Eight infrared LEDs and new algorithms improve Night Vision and motion detection.
Google is also offering an optional video storage and management service that costs $10 per month. It will give you access to up to 30 days of recorded video content with the moments when there is motion or sound to be highlighted for easy searching. You can also create custom Activity Zones around areas of interest - such as a door - so you can be alerted of any activity in a specific area.
Together with YouTube, Nest is also piloting the ability for YouTube creators to stream directly to YouTube Live from Nest Cam, giving viewers a behind-the-scenes look at their favorite personalities. Initial participants include Unbox Therapy, Devin Supertramp and iJustine.
In addition, Nest has enabled popular camera feeds to stream directly to Nest’s YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/nest).
The new Nest Cam is available now for $199 and beginning next month, it will also launch in Europe.
The second generation Nest Protect smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarm is 11 percent smaller and sits more flush against the ceiling or wall. It is also the first residential alarm to offer a custom, Split-Spectrum Sensor that uses two wavelengths of light to look for different types of fires. Also, Nest Protect alarms can now be silenced from your phone. In addition, you can test the sensors, power, Wi-Fi connection, horn and speaker on all your alarms, right from your phone.
The upgraded Nest Learning Thermostat is now notifying customers via sms when temperatures drop to help avoid frozen pipes and adding new integrations with other Nest products.
If you have a Nest Protect at home, you can now see smoke and CO alerts right on your thermostat. The more places you see an alarm, the more chances you have of catching a problem early.
Some heating systems can be a source of CO leaks. Others can make a fire worse by spreading smoke throughout your home. Now your Nest Thermostat and Nest Protect can work together to turn off your forced air heating/cooling system in a smoke or CO emergency.
Nest Protect is available for purchase today for a suggested retail price of $99. It will begin shipping next month.
Last but not least, the redesigned Nest app 5.0 brings together all three Nest products, across multiple platforms, making it easier to access and control Nest products. The app can be used in any browser and on both Android or iOS devices (iOS 8.0+, Android 4.0+). It is available now in the Google Play Store and iOS App Store.