Yes, Google discontinued Nest Secure, its home alarm system, in October 2020 and will end support for it in April 2024. Nest Secure users will no longer be able to access or control their devices via the Google Nest app after that date. Google has offered credits and discounts to help users transition to other security systems or products.
What was Nest Secure and why did Google launch it?
Nest Secure was a home security system that consisted of several devices, such as the Nest Guard, Nest Detect, Nest Tag, and Nest Cam. The system was designed to be easy to install, use, and customize. Users could arm and disarm the system with a tap, a passcode, or a key fob. They could also monitor their home remotely via the Google Nest app or a compatible smart speaker or display.
Google launched Nest Secure in 2017 as part of its smart home strategy. The company acquired Nest, a maker of smart thermostats and cameras, in 2014 and integrated it into its hardware division in 2018. Google wanted to leverage Nest’s expertise and brand recognition to create a comprehensive and cohesive ecosystem of smart home products and services.
Why did Google discontinue Nest Secure and what does it mean for users?
Google discontinued Nest Secure in October 2020, just three years after its launch. The company did not provide a clear explanation for its decision, but some possible reasons include:
Low sales and market share: Nest Secure faced stiff competition from other home security systems, such as SimpliSafe, Ring, and ADT. According to a report by Strategy Analytics, Nest Secure had only 1.6% of the US smart home security market in 2019, compared to 21.4% for SimpliSafe and 18.2% for Ring.
High cost and complexity: Nest Secure was relatively expensive and complex compared to its rivals. The system cost $399 for the starter kit, which included the Nest Guard, two Nest Detects, and two Nest Tags. Additional devices cost $59 for the Nest Detect and $25 for the Nest Tag. Users also had to pay a monthly fee of $5 or $10 for Nest Aware, a subscription service that provided cloud storage and advanced features for the Nest Cam.
Lack of innovation and integration: Nest Secure did not receive any major updates or improvements since its launch, except for the addition of Google Assistant support in 2019. The system also did not integrate well with other Google or Nest products, such as the Nest Hub, Nest Hello, or Nest Wifi.
Google announced that it will end support for Nest Secure on April 8, 2024. This means that users will no longer be able to access or control their devices via the Google Nest app or the Google Assistant. The devices will also lose internet connectivity and functionality. Google has advised users to switch to another security system before then.
To help users with the transition, Google has offered the following options:
A $200 credit to use on the Google Store for any product, including the new Nest Cam or Nest Doorbell.
An exclusive offer for a self-setup system from ADT, a leading home security provider. The offer includes a free ADT hub, a free door/window sensor, a free motion detector, and a 50% discount on additional sensors. The offer also includes a free six-month trial of ADT’s professional monitoring service, which normally costs $29.99 per month.
A 50% discount on a new indoor wired Nest Cam for Dropcam users. Dropcam was a Wi-Fi enabled video-streaming camera that Google acquired in 2014 and rebranded as Nest Cam in 2015. Google will also stop support for Dropcam on April 8, 2024.
What are the alternatives to Nest Secure and how do they compare?
Users who are looking for alternatives to Nest Secure have several options to choose from, depending on their needs, preferences, and budget. Some of the most popular and reputable home security systems in the US are:
SimpliSafe: SimpliSafe is a DIY wireless security system that offers a wide range of devices, such as sensors, cameras, sirens, and smart locks. The system is easy to install, use, and customize. Users can control the system via the SimpliSafe app or a keypad. They can also opt for professional monitoring for $14.99 or $24.99 per month, which includes cellular backup, video verification, and smart home integration.
Ring: Ring is a smart home security system that is best known for its video doorbells and cameras. The system also offers sensors, alarms, and smart lighting. Users can control the system via the Ring app or a keypad. They can also opt for professional monitoring for $10 per month, which includes cellular backup, video recording, and smart home integration.
ADT: ADT is a traditional home security system that offers professional installation, monitoring, and service. The system offers a variety of devices, such as sensors, cameras, sirens, and smart locks. Users can control the system via the ADT app or a touchscreen panel. They can also opt for smart home integration with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Z-Wave.
The table below summarizes some of the key features and differences among these systems:
Table
Feature
Nest Secure
SimpliSafe
Ring
ADT
Price
$399 for starter kit
$229 for starter kit
$199 for starter kit
$599 for starter kit
Monthly fee
$5 or $10 for Nest Aware
$14.99 or $24.99 for professional monitoring
$10 for professional monitoring
$29.99 to $59.99 for professional monitoring
Devices
Nest Guard, Nest Detect, Nest Tag, Nest Cam
Sensors, cameras, sirens, smart locks, etc.
Sensors, cameras, doorbells, alarms, smart lighting, etc.
Sensors, cameras, sirens, smart locks, etc.
Installation
DIY
DIY
DIY
Professional
Monitoring
Self or professional
Self or professional
Self or professional
Professional
Backup
Cellular or battery
Cellular or battery
Cellular or battery
Cellular or battery
Smart home integration
Google Assistant
Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, etc.
Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, etc.
Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Z-Wave, etc.
Conclusion
Google discontinued Nest Secure, its home alarm system, in October 2020 and will end support for it in April 2024. Nest Secure users will no longer be able to access or control their devices via the Google Nest app after that date. Google has offered credits and discounts to help users transition to other security systems or products.
Nest Secure was a home security system that consisted of several devices, such as the Nest Guard, Nest Detect, Nest Tag, and Nest Cam. Google launched Nest Secure in 2017 as part of its smart home strategy, but the system failed to gain traction in the market due to its high cost, complexity, and lack of innovation and integration.
Users who are looking for alternatives to Nest Secure have several options to choose from, depending on their needs, preferences, and budget. Some of the most popular and reputable home security systems in the US are SimpliSafe, Ring, and ADT. These systems offer different features, prices, and benefits, and users should compare them carefully before making a decision.
