Google’s Nest division has unveiled its latest thermostat model. Priced at $129, this Nest Thermostat represents the company’s most accessible option to date. It introduces a novel swipe and tap interface located on the device’s side, alongside Google’s Soli radar technology, designed to detect when someone is present in the room or approaching the thermostat.

It’s important to understand that Soli’s functionality is centered on motion detection in this instance. The design team opted for a sleek, mirror-like finish on the front of the thermostat and therefore chose to utilize Soli exclusively for sensing movement.

This new thermostat, constructed with 49% recycled plastic, will be available in four distinct colors: Snow, Charcoal, Sand, and Fog. Additionally, a $14.99 trim kit is being released to assist in concealing any imperfections in your wall paint during installation.

“The device features an appealing design with an intuitive swipe-based control system, allowing for a more natural interaction compared to the small buttons commonly found on conventional thermostats,” explained Ruchi Desai, Nest product lead.

This updated version is primarily intended for individuals residing in smaller homes or apartments, as it does not support Nest’s remote sensors. Compatibility with those sensors requires either the Nest Thermostat E (often available for approximately $139) or the full-featured Nest Learning Thermostat.

Regarding automation, a key feature highlighted with this release is the thermostat’s capability to assist users in establishing customized temperature schedules for various times of the day and different days of the week. Nest refers to this functionality as Quick Schedule.

“In contrast to the Nest Learning Thermostat, which incorporates an auto-schedule [feature], this model provides the option to create temperature presets, empowering you to tailor a schedule to your lifestyle and preferences,” Desai stated. “It also offers the flexibility to override the schedule with desired temperatures, providing control when you need it.”

This functionality closely resembles features found in many current smart thermostats from brands like Ecobee and other Nest competitors, but it is a new addition for Nest.

The thermostat also includes a Savings Finder feature, which identifies potential minor adjustments that can lead to increased energy savings.

The integrated Soli radar chip enables the device to automatically reduce the temperature when the space is unoccupied. While the team chose not to implement gesture controls, a feature previously used with the Google Pixel 4 phone, they explained that this decision was made to align with the target user’s needs.

“This was a deliberate choice during the product design process, as we focused on the features most important to our intended user. These users, new to the smart home experience, highly value app control and the energy-saving capabilities of the thermostat. We prioritized features that resonated with them,” Desai clarified.

It’s possible that future iterations of Nest’s higher-end thermostats will explore more extensive applications of this technology. Currently, it appears to be a missed opportunity, although it’s worth noting that Soli’s implementation in the Pixel 4 was largely considered a novelty, and the Nest team is at least putting it to practical use here.

As before, Nest estimates that installation will take approximately 30 minutes. The accompanying app guides users through each step, simplifying the process for systems adhering to current standards.

Remote control of the thermostat is managed through the Google Home app, which also provides access to the smart features designed to maximize energy conservation.

The new thermostat is now available for purchase in the U.S. ($129.99) and Canada ($179.99 CAD). In Canada, the trim kit is priced at $19.99 CAD. The team also pointed out that various utility rebates and incentives may allow many customers to acquire the thermostat for a significantly reduced price, depending on their location.