Google Nest Cam & Doorbell Refresh: New Features & Updates

Recent Nest Updates Confirmed After Prior Leak

Information revealed in a leak yesterday proved largely accurate. Today’s official announcement from Google confirms nearly all details previously seen. This outcome is typical when Google itself is the source of the initial information dissemination.

This morning’s announcement signifies a substantial update to Google’s home security product line. Several configurations of Nest security cameras and doorbells are receiving updates.

New Device Lineup

Google is introducing up to four new devices today. These include the Google Nest Cam battery, the Google Nest Doorbell (priced at $180 each), the $280 Google Nest Cam with floodlight, and the $100 Google Nest Cam.

Design and Functionality

The new Nest Cams boast a design reminiscent of animation from Pixar. The $100 base Nest Cam is a second-generation wired model intended solely for indoor use.

The $180 version incorporates battery power and waterproofing, expanding its usability to both indoor and outdoor environments.

Battery Performance and AI Capabilities

Google estimates the battery life to be approximately three months per charge. This estimate is based on an average of nine to twelve recorded “events” daily. Actual battery life will vary depending on the level of activity detected.

The integrated AI/ML system is trained to identify specific occurrences, such as people, animals, or package deliveries, based on user-defined settings.

Advanced Technology

“Training a camera to utilize ML for object recognition necessitates presenting the ML model with millions of images initially,” Google explains in a recent blog post.

“Our latest Nest Cameras and Doorbells have been trained on 40 million images to adapt to diverse environments and lighting conditions. A state-of-the-art TPU chip enables our new cameras to process an ML model up to 7.5 times per second, enhancing both reliability and accuracy.”

Key features include:

• Wire-free design for flexible installation.

Doorbell Features and Limitations

The new doorbell features a streamlined design. Its battery-powered operation simplifies installation, eliminating the need for wiring.

Without a direct connection to a wired chime, the doorbell can be configured to announce visitors through connected Google devices, such as Nest speakers and smart displays.

Unlike the existing wired Nest Hello (which remains available), the new doorbell does not support continuous recording due to battery limitations. Average usage is expected to provide around three months of operation.

Availability and Pre-Order Information

Pre-orders for the new Nest devices begin today in 18 countries. The products will officially be available for purchase starting August 24.