Google has recently made an exciting announcement regarding its Nest Hello doorbell being supported in the Google Home app. This means that users can now move their Nest Doorbell from the Nest app to the Google Home app for a more integrated experience. Additionally, Google is expanding its garage door detection feature, which was previously in public preview, to all users with compatible hardware. This feature utilizes a Nest Cam to notify you when your garage door is open, closed, or left ajar.
The garage door detection feature does not require any additional hardware installation, unlike smart garage door controllers that need to be wired to the garage door’s electric system. All you need to do is position a compatible Google Nest cam towards your garage door, whether it’s indoors or outdoors. This feature can send alerts through the Google Home app when your garage door status changes.
Moreover, the Google Home app now includes most of the Nest app’s video playback features, allowing users to easily switch between timeline and event views. Nest Hello users who are part of Google’s public preview will soon be able to transfer their video doorbell to the Google Home app directly from the Nest app. This integration will enable users to manage their doorbell, view recorded videos, and connect it to other devices within the Google Home ecosystem for automation purposes.
If you have migrated your Nest account to Google, you can now access live video from your Nest Hello doorbell directly in the Home app. Previously, users needed to use the Nest app to view recorded videos and receive doorbell ring alerts. This transition aims to consolidate most of the doorbell’s functions into the Home app, providing a more streamlined user experience.
Google has been gradually moving its legacy Nest cameras to the Google Home app over the past few years. While the Nest Cam Indoor and Outdoor (wired, first-gen) have successfully made the transition, the Nest Cam IQ indoor and outdoor models, as well as the Nest Protect smoke alarm, are still only accessible through the Nest app. Unfortunately, Google has discontinued support for the OG Dropcams and Nest Secure system earlier this year.
In conclusion, Google’s efforts to integrate Nest devices into the Google Home app are a significant step towards offering users a more cohesive smart home experience. With the addition of Nest Hello and the expanded garage door detection feature, users can expect enhanced functionality and convenience when managing their home security systems through the Google Home app.
