Google lifted the curtain on a fresh batch of Nest security gadgets this week, and they are betting big on artificial intelligence-driven features.
A trio of devices leads the charge: the new Nest Cam Outdoor priced at $149.99, the Nest Cam Indoor for $99.99, and a revamped Nest Doorbell at $179.99. These products are all about clarity, delivering crisp 2K HDR video that promises sharper, more detailed images than ever before.
Each camera captures a wider frame than previous editions. The outdoor and indoor models boast a 152-degree diagonal field of view, while the doorbell stretches to a remarkable 166 degrees, offering a near-square image that captures everything from head to toe.
Low-light ability has seen a notable bump. Thanks to the newer sensors and larger apertures, Google’s lineup now pulls in over twice as much light as older units and keeps night scenes in rich color for longer stretches during those tricky early morning and evening hours.
Incoming alerts will now zoom right in on what triggered them, putting less strain on your eyes and more focus where it matters. Plus, users have the option to lock the zoom into a chosen zone around their porch or entryway.
Gemini AI Turns Cameras Into Smart Home Hubs
Where these Nest devices truly stand out, though, is their use of the next-generation Gemini AI. Instead of bombarding you with generic notifications, Gemini delivers detailed alerts that explain what’s happening in the captured footage. Anish Kattukaran, Google’s chief product officer for Home and Nest, called it “semantic scene understanding” and stressed, ”That’s what Gemini is going to transform.”
If a delivery arrives or a pet slips out the door, you won’t just see “motion detected” but a clear account, like “dog leaps from playpen,” complete with zoomed-in video. You can even bring up a summary of all noteworthy activity from the past 24 hours in the Google Home app.
Playback history now goes further, too. Without upgrading, users can scroll back six hours and watch ten-second clips for each activity event. Extended history is available through paid plans.
Sustainability takes center stage with plastic free packaging and a tougher exterior resin that promises better UV resistance. Varied colors cater to different aesthetics, with the Nest Cam Indoor available in Snow, Hazel, and Berry, and the rugged Outdoor Cam in Snow and Hazel.
Security has not been sidelined. Google ensures video is encrypted, employs two-step authentication, and signals with a green light whenever footage is being streamed or recorded.
For those shopping on a tighter budget, a collaboration with Walmart sees the debut of affordable onn branded indoor and video doorbell cameras. While these offer a lower 1080p video quality, paying for a premium subscription unlocks some of Gemini’s smarter alerts and features.
The software side is also evolving. subscription tiers are getting bundled into Google One memberships for eligible users at no added cost. Finally, Google is consolidating everything into the main Home app, aiming for a smoother transition for long-time Nest customers without abruptly pulling the plug on the separate app.
