PSA: Your Nest Thermostat Might Lose All Smart Features on Saturday
In a not-so-welcome update for owners of the aging Google Nest Learning Thermostat, the countdown to the loss of full smart functionality is almost over. Come this Saturday, October 25th, support for the 1st and 2nd generation Nest Thermostats will end, stripping them of their smart capabilities.
Following the announcement made back in May, Google confirmed that older Nest Thermostats would no longer be compatible with the Google Nest app or Google Home app post the October 25th deadline. This change means that these thermostats will only support on-device controls for basic functions, leaving behind the convenience of remote adjustments and smart features.
Unfortunately, this discontinuation also translates to the loss of third-party assistant interactions and connected features like Home/Away Assist and Nest Protect connectivity. Consequently, users will no longer have the luxury of managing their thermostat remotely and will have to resort to manual adjustments akin to traditional non-smart thermostats.
The affected models include the Nest Learning Thermostat 1st gen (2011), Nest Learning Thermostat 2nd gen (2012), and the European version of the 2nd gen (2014). Notably, the Nest Thermostat (2020) remains unaffected as it falls outside the ‘learning’ model category.
For Nest customers seeking alternative smart thermostat options, the Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd gen emerges as a viable choice. Released in September 2015, this model continues to provide a smart solution for users, alongside the remaining Nest Thermostat E units available while stocks last.
Furthermore, Google is offering a 50% discount on the Tado Smart Thermostat X – Starter Kit, with eligible customers receiving this offer through personalized emails. The latest addition to the Nest lineup, the Nest Thermostat 4th gen, launched over a year ago but remains exclusive to North America, where older-gen thermostat owners are eligible for a $130 discount to facilitate the transition.
Despite inquiries into Google’s plans for wider availability of its current thermostat models, responses have been elusive, hinting at potential limitations in the future smart thermostat market. With Google signaling the end of new Nest thermostat launches in Europe due to heating system complexities, the future landscape remains uncertain.
While the Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd gen and Thermostat E continue to receive security updates and app control, the duration of this support remains unclear. The looming question of sustained support for the gen 3 model raises concerns about the continuity of smart thermostat solutions for most users.
However, amidst these changes, Google Home users can anticipate the arrival of Gemini and new devices like the Home Speaker and a potential new Nest Hub. These upcoming offerings may provide alternative smart home solutions for users affected by the Nest thermostat discontinuation.
In conclusion, with the imminent loss of smart features for older Nest Thermostats, users are encouraged to explore alternative smart thermostat options to ensure continued convenience and efficiency in managing home temperatures. As the deadline approaches, staying informed about available alternatives and future developments in the smart home market is crucial to adapt to the evolving landscape of smart technology.