Nest Labs is expanding its smart home range with new security products, including the Nest Secure alarm system, Nest Hello video doorbell and Nest Cam IQ outdoor security camera. It also announced the first integration of Google Assistant, on its indoor camera.
The Nest Secure alarm system is based on a starter pack including a base station controlled by a keypad passcode or app and motion sensor. The battery-powered sensor detects both motion and open or close movement so can be attached to a window, door or wall. A keychain fob allows the user to arm or disarm the sensor without a passcode. Security cameras can also be attached to the system.
The Nest Hello is a type of outdoor video camera to place at the entry to a building. It can detect a person, then send an alert and a snapshot, even if that person doesn’t ring the bell. Owners are kept informed with alerts over an app and can also talk to people at the door from anywhere, as well as send pre-recorded responses from the app.
The Nest Cam IQ outdoor security camera provides further monitoring and protection outside the home. It builds on the Cam IQ indoor camera launched by Nest earlier this year, adding a more durable design. In addition to surveillance, it can send actionable information via an alert, like spotting someone unfamiliar in the yard.
In addition to the new hardware, Nest announced the option to add the Google Assistant to Nest Cam IQ indoor. It’s the first security camera to have the Google Assistant built in, and will be available via a free software update for all current and new customers this winter.
Lock-in
As well as its parent company Google, Nest is collaborating with other partners. Early next year the company will launch with locksmith Yale a modern take on a secure deadbolt. The new lock, the same as Nest’s own products, leverages both the Thread and Weave connection protocols in order to communicate with Nest Secure and other Nest products, even if the power is out or there's no internet connection.
Customers can disarm the Nest Secure alarm system when they unlock the Nest + Yale lock, and they’ll be able to unlock the door when they notice a friend (or delivery person) through the Nest Hello video doorbell.Nest will also launch a new accessory, called Nest Connect, that will ensure Nest Secure will work in large homes, as well as enable the Nest + Yale lock, and similar products, to connect to the internet and be controllable via the Nest App.
