Google has announced an update aimed at those that use a “blended” smart home by combining tech from different companies. A new Google Nest skill has been introduced for Amazon Alexa to work with the newest Nest cameras and doorbells – specifically the Nest Cam (outdoor, indoor, wired, or battery variants), the Nest Cam with […]
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How to temporarily turn off Google Assistant on Nest speakers and displays with ‘Downtime’
Google’s Digital Wellbeing tools can help you use technology without it overtaking your life. Limiting your usage of Nest speakers, displays, and more as well as apps on your phone is an incredibly powerful way to make the most of innovations without losing yourself in the process as it can be easy to become inundated. […]
Continue ReadingYour Google Nest Hub will soon show your Fitbit step count, calories burned, and more
A Google Support page was recently spotted by 9to5Google that details how some of your FitBit’s features or data could soon integrate with your 2nd Generation Nest Hub. These “Activity metrics” could appear on your smart display after syncing from your Fitbit or Google Fit account – both of which will be able to be […]
Continue ReadingHow to set up Package Detection on Google Nest cameras
Google’s Nest family of doorbells has had package detection functionality since 2019; however, most people who own them have no idea this is even possible. This functionality does vary on the type of camera you have, and it does require that you are subscribed to the Nest Aware plan. Still, you can choose to receive […]
Continue ReadingFuture smart home devices may eventually ditch screens, blending into everyday materials instead
Google is researching the ability to mask interfaces to control ambient computing devices by making them blend in with materials like wood and cloth. Everyday materials around your house may hold and hide future smart devices so that they blend in better when you’re not using them. This has been a dream for quite some […]
Continue ReadingNest and Google Wi-Fi routers experiencing sporadic, ongoing disconnection issues
A handful of months ago, 9to5Google reported on intermittent and sporadic disconnection issues with Nest and Google Wi-Fi devices for users, and new reports are surfacing now that indicate the problem is rearing its ugly head once more. On Google’s Nest Help forum, a community member who goes by the name of Sydtriman states that […]
Continue ReadingA new Google or Nest Wifi could be in the works, may feature Wifi 6 for improved connectivity
According to a recent APK Insights deep dive by the 9to5Google team, Google could have a brand new Nest or Google Wifi device in the works. Codenamed “Sirocco”, which refers to “a hot wind, often dusty or rainy, blowing from North Africa across the Mediterranean to southern Europe”, the new device falls right in line […]
Continue ReadingSecond Gen Nest Hub users are receiving a redesigned Pixel-like user interface
Many individuals with a second-generation Nest Hub are now receiving an updated and redesigned, Pixel phone-like user interface. In place of the traditional Home Control view, the top of the screen can now be swiped down to reveal a quick settings-style set of tiles for controlling your lights, cameras, and other smart home devices. Additionally, […]
Continue ReadingNest Hub will now display birthday countdown cards for your friends and family
In an update that’s already rolling out, your Nest Hub will now display a cute birthday card at the top-right of its display when someone in your Google Contacts or Family Group has a birthday coming up. The company announced this on short notice via Twitter, but it was accompanied by an update on the […]
Continue ReadingGoogle may be working on a new 2022 Nest Hub that could double as a detachable tablet
According to 9to5Google and a source they trust, Google is working on a new Nest Hub for 2022, but not just any Nest Hub – a detachable one. Wait, what? Yup, one that apparently has a screen that detaches from the base so that it can be carried around the house and used from the […]
Continue ReadingGoogle Cast is missing two important features and their absence frustrates the listening experience
I love Google Cast, but it’s far from perfect. I listen to Youtube videos on my living room TV, songs from Youtube Music on my Nest Mini while I shower (too much information, I know), and more. The technology is immensely popular nowadays, and it’s developed quite a bit, but what I can’t seem to […]
Continue ReadingNest Cam and Doorbell batteries not charging in cold weather
Google’s acquisition of the Nest brand back in 2014 prompted a rebrand of most of the Nest products, but it also spawned new product releases as well. One of these was the battery-powered Nest Doorbell which provided a solution for those that either lived in rental properties or were simply not inclined to do some […]
Continue ReadingGoogle just changed how White Noise plays on smart speakers and now it’s less useful
Something strange is going on in the silent hours of the night as Google’s Nest speaker “white noise” feature has all of a sudden completely changed how it operates. According to many smart homeowners on the Nest Community forum, when saying “Hey Google, play white noise”, they’re now met with audio that’s much more muffled […]
Continue ReadingYou only have a few days left to get half off of the Nest Mini and the 2nd generation Nest Hub
Google has been running a bunch of deals lately on its hardware products, letting you save a bunch of money on the quintessential smart home staples that it’s become known for. The company is sending out emails now to remind its users that several of the deals are ending in just a few days. If […]
Continue ReadingIt’s not your fault: Setting timers with Google Assistant on smart displays is busted right now
Google Assistant is great…when it works. Generally, failed attempts to command your personalized helper can be chalked up to not speaking loud enough or clear enough for it to comprehend you. Other times, it’s due to you not using the right hotwords or phrases to get the reaction you want. Today, it’s not your fault […]
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