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Google Nest’s recent announcement regarding the discontinuation of the Nest Protect and Nest x Yale Lock has naturally sparked questions about the company’s commitment to the smart home space. While the sunsetting of older devices like the 2nd generation Nest Protect from 2015 and the 2018 Nest x Yale Lock raised eyebrows, Google Nest was quick to reaffirm its dedication to building innovative home devices.
The company’s official statement emphasized that these decisions don’t signal a retreat from the smart home market. Instead, Google Nest highlighted recent releases like the 4th generation Nest Learning Thermostat and the Google TV Streamer as evidence of their ongoing investment. The 4th gen Learning Thermostat, in particular, represents a significant upgrade, showcasing Google’s willingness to iterate and improve its product line.
Looking at the broader Nest ecosystem, you can see a range of recent releases that solidify Google’s presence in the smart home. The Nest Cam lineup, which includes both wired and battery-powered options, along with the Nest Doorbell, demonstrates a focus on home security. Additionally, the Google TV Streamer, while relatively new, points towards Google’s ambition to integrate entertainment and smart home functionalities.
However, the future of Nest smart displays and speakers remains somewhat ambiguous. With the Gemini-powered Google Assistant still in testing, it’s unclear whether Google plans to launch new hardware to accompany this advancement. The “coming months” mentioned in their statement suggests that we might see refreshed devices sooner rather than later, with speakers and displays being prime candidates.
Ultimately, while the discontinuation of older devices is always notable, Google Nest’s recent releases and stated commitment indicate that they are still actively developing and refining their smart home ecosystem. The next few months will be crucial in revealing the company’s plans for smart displays and speakers, and we’ll be keeping a close eye on any developments.
VIA: 9to5 Google
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