As technology progresses, so do the products created to make life easier. While it's convenient to have powerful home security and surveillance systems, many companies find it necessary to update their products or discontinue those no longer in use.
The End of an Era: Discontinuation of Google's Support for Dropcam and Nest Secure
According to the story by The Verge, Google announced they will end their support of two popular home security systems, Dropcam and Nest Secure, on April 8th, 2024.
Google's decision to discontinue its support of the systems is not unwarranted. After Google bought Nest back in 2015 and spun it out in 2018 as its own company, efforts have been made to integrate Nest's products into Google Home.
Considering the Dropcam and Nest Secure are among the few remaining Nest products that haven't been brought to Google Home, there was likely a need to discontinue the products to move forward in the digital age.
Offer from Google to Help Dropcam Users Transition Easily
To help ease the blow of the transition, Google is offering a free indoor wired Nest Cam to Dropcam owners who are subscribed to Nest Aware, as well as a 50 percent-off coupon to those who are not. Previously, Google promised support for its Nest products for at least five years, per ARS Technica.
Additionally, a promotion is running until May 7th, 2024, allowing existing Dropcam users to keep using their cameras until it stops working. Google has released a statement informing Nest Secure owners of an exclusive offer for a complimentary next-generation security system from ADT, valid through May 7th, 2024.
This offer includes an ADT smart home hub, two door/window sensors, a motion sensor, and one year of free monitoring. The offer does not come without drawbacks, as customers may not be thrilled to have to switch to a traditional security company.
Google's Commitment to Nest Products: Keeping True to the Digital Age
The end of Google's support for the Dropcam and Nest Secure systems and its discontinuation of the Works With Nest Connections has left the Nest Protect smart smoke alarms as the only surviving Nest App-only devices.
Upon its release, Google has promised to bring them to their newly-updated Google Home app, although a firm date has yet to be announced. Google has committed to supporting Nest products for at least five years, something it has kept true to, despite any changes that may have come against it in the digital age.
Even with standards of upgrades or changes and the push to stay current with technology, some customers may feel frustrated by purchasing a new system after their investments in the previous ones.
Read Also: Google: WebGPU to Enhance In-Browser Gaming as Default Feature in the Upcoming Chrome 113
Google and ADT Offering Support to Legacy Nest Users During Transition
Thankfully, Google's offers of a free indoor wired Nest Cam and exclusive discounts from ADT soften the blow of the transition for many previous users. However, it was noted that not all Alexa skill didn't support all IFTT integration features.
As the last few legacy Works with Nest connections are wound down, those holding onto a Dropcam for over a decade can surely appreciate the years of use they've gotten out of their system.
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