Google has introduced three new wired Nest models, featuring 2K resolution for its camera lineup alongside the launch of its AI-powered Gemini for Home integration, reports 24brussels.
The newly unveiled devices include the Nest Cam Indoor 2K priced at $99.99, the Nest Cam Outdoor 2K at $149.99, and the wired Nest Doorbell 2K available for $179.99. This marks the first time Google has developed hardware specifically tailored for its Gemini for Home platform, which promises to enhance smart home functionalities significantly.
While this refresh primarily affects the wired models, all previous Nest cameras since the initial release in 2015 will be compatible with the Gemini system. Importantly, the refreshed cameras maintain their predecessor’s design but offer new color variants, such as berry red for the indoor model and a green-grey option (dubbed Hazel) for the outdoor camera and doorbell. Google has claimed that the new cameras feature improved UV resistance to maintain their appearance over time.
These models support advanced features like 2K HDR video, an expanded field of view, and enhanced low-light capabilities due to a new sensor design. The outdoor camera’s field of view has increased from 130 to 152 degrees, while the doorbell now provides a diagonal view of 166 degrees, compared to 145 degrees previously. Furthermore, Google is doubling its free video clip storage from three hours to six for motion-activated recordings; for extended clips, users will need the Google Home Premium subscription, which is now rebranded from Nest Aware, starting at $10 per month.
Smarter camera intelligence
The new Nest cameras are designed to relay more data to Gemini, enabling better artificial intelligence features, such as AI-generated text descriptions. Anish Kattukaran from Google explained that the cameras can now provide detailed contextual alerts instead of generic notifications. Rather than simply stating “animal detected,” users will receive more precise descriptions, for instance, “dog jumps out of playpen.”
The AI-generated text descriptions also enhance a new feature called “Home Brief” in the Google Home app, which summarizes daily activities and events. This functionality aims to streamline notifications, allowing users to prioritize alerts regarding pets or people over less critical issues like package deliveries. Subscription to the top-tier Google Home Premium Advanced plan at $20 per month is required to access these features along with continuous recording.
Leave no Nest behind
Google has confirmed that all existing hardware produced since 2015 will be compatible with the new Gemini features for cameras. A full list of supported devices includes the Nest Cam Indoor and Outdoor, Nest Cam IQ models, and the latest Nest Doorbell iterations.
A redesigned Google Home app
In conjunction with its hardware upgrades, Google is also revamping the Google Home app. The overhaul aims to eliminate the fragmentation experienced in previous versions by adopting a new architecture that unifies functionalities across all Nest devices. The revamped app, now launched, reduces navigation options from five tabs to three: Home, Activity, and Automations, enhancing usability and speed.
A new “Ask Home” chatbot feature within the app grants users voice or text access to Gemini, allowing them to create automations in natural language or inquire about home events and video footage.
A new AI-infused subscription plan
The Google Home Premium subscription is set to replace Nest Aware, offering the same pricing tiers while introducing Gemini-enhanced features. The Standard plan, available for $10 monthly or $100 annually, incorporates all Nest Aware functionalities along with new Gemini capabilities. The Advanced plan at $20 monthly or $200 annually adds advanced AI notifications and descriptions.
This new subscription structure becomes seamlessly integrated with Google’s other AI offerings, enabling users to customize their subscriptions to enhance their smart home experience.
