The new Nest models include an indoor-only camera, an indoor/outdoor camera, a floodlight, and the video doorbell, and will replace the current generation Nest IQ cameras and Nest Hello doorbells. The upgraded Nests have more features and cost less than the previous models. While saving some money is nice, I’m also looking forward to the new designs of the NEST lineup. The new cameras have muted color options and soft edges that make them fit better into my apartment’s decor.
Feather Your Nest
The new Nest cameras are getting upgraded smarts, as well as better looks. Google claims the latest models can detect people, animals, packages, and vehicles, and provide specific alerts for each without the need for cloud processing. You also won’t need to pay a subscription fee for this ability, unlike Google’s Familiar Faces feature, which uses facial recognition to scan strangers. Hopefully, the new detection capability will mean that your camera won’t constantly be sending notifications from repeat visitors. The new cameras have processors that let algorithms process double the pixels and frame rates of earlier Nest Cams. Google says that this upgraded system will allow for more reliable detection. The new $179.99 Nest Cam can be used indoors or out. The camera includes an internal battery that Google says lasts up to three months between charges. This model can also be wired for power so you don’t have to worry about battery life. You can also purchase an optional solar panel.
Better Looking Cameras
Many outdoor security cameras are so ugly that they can make your house look like a prison yard. I’m not saying that Google has this problem solved, but the Nest Cam is definitely a nicer-looking option than most with a rounded design. At least it looks like it belongs in a stylish prison. It’s also got a magnetic mounting base that can withstand high winds. You won’t be making Hollywood movies with the Nest Cam but it’s got pretty decent specs. The camera records 16:9 1080p video at up to 30fps through a 130-degree field of view. It can zoom up to 6x by using the Google Home app when viewing the feed or a recorded clip. In case you are really into staring at the chipmunks playing on your lawn, Google has you covered. If you want to watch more than three hours of clips that the camera has recorded you can upgrade to a Nest Aware or Aware Plus subscription that offers up to 10 days of 24/7 recording and 60 days of event history. If you want to shed some light on the outdoors you can choose the $279.99 Nest Cam with Floodlight. It’s got a 2400 lumen floodlight but requires permanent power so you’ll need to run wires. The one neat trick about the Cam with Floodlight is that it uses software to activate when it detects a person or vehicle. This way, you hopefully won’t be flashing lights at rambunctious squirrels. Personally, I’m most interested in keeping an eye on my pets so the new $99.99 Nest Cam Indoor is my best option. It’s smaller than the standard Nest Cam and comes in white, pink, beige, or green to match your decor. If smart doorbells are your thing, you might be excited to hear that the new $179.99 Nest Doorbell is Google’s first battery-powered video doorbell. Like the Nest cam, it comes in a choice white, beige, green, or gray so it won’t mess with your decor too much. Google claims the doorbell will have a battery life of about two and a half months. The new Nest cameras might not be revolutionary but they offer more smarts and snazzier looks than their predecessors. I use the Google Home app and it’s a great way to keep all your smart devices integrated. I can’t wait to try out the new Nest cameras to keep an eye on my property.
