Google-owned home automation company Nest's much-awaited press event has finally shed light on what the company had up its sleeve: say hello to the Nest 5.0 update.
On Wednesday, June 17, Nest revealed its new app, which has been renamed "Nest" instead of "Nest app." The app gets an update but instead of waiting for the old app to be updated, users will simply have to uninstall the old app and install the new app.
The Nest 5.0 app also has a new look and feel (and a new icon too). The UI is different and brings support for Nest Thermostat and Nest Protect. The highlight, however, is the much-rumored Dropcam and the new Nest Cam. The best thing about the Nest 5.0 app is that everything is streamlined.
"At Nest, we always wanted to build more than a thermostat," revealed Tony Fadell, Nest's CEO. "Our vision was to create a thoughtful home—a home that takes care of itself and the people in it. Five years later, all the pieces are in place. We've built a portfolio of best-in-class products that each stand on their own while doing more together."
So, what are the new features the Nest 5.0 update brings to make it more "welcoming"? Here is a look at the features:
Home Screen
Users will be able to view all their Nest devices in a single place since the Dropcam, Nest Cam and Nest Thermostat all have their designated spot. Moreover, a single icon comprises a user's Nest Protect.
Live Camera Feeds
Users will be able to see video previews of all the cameras they have set up live and on the home screen. This means one can easily check out what is happening in all the rooms.
Single Tap ... and You're Home!
One simply needs to tap on the Nest house and Nest will be aware if you're not home or available. This feature is helpful for the Nest Cam, the thermostat and even the Dropcam since you can switch off/on the camera when you're away.
Improved Weather Display
The screen will reflect the weather outside in a nicer manner. If it's snowing, for instance, your screen shows snow! A cloudy day also means more clouds.
More Organized Settings
The settings are simpler to navigate now. One simply needs to tap on the top left to swap between different home locations and view account details. To get details on your devices, tap on the gear icon.
The Nest update also brings improved zooming for phones. One can get sharper views on the Dropcam or Nest Cam. Moreover, the Talk and Listen feature is also simplified since one just needs to press the icon and issue commands.
Nest Aware with Video History also gets an improvement, and those with a subscription to the feature will get a summary of the events, making it easier to find moments when the camera picks up motion or sounds. One can also skip events; the option to jump 30 seconds of the footage exists. Users can also access both Dropcam HD and Dropcam Pro from the updated Nest app.
Using functions such as Heat/Cool modes, energy history and schedules on your thermostat is also easy with the Nest Learning Thermostat.
The Nest Cam is capable of 1080p HD on Wi-Fi and also offers improved night vision and secured streaming support.
"The all-new Nest Cam builds on the Dropcam features customers love, adding better video quality and a new design to make it even easier to keep an eye on your home," said Nest.
For additional details on all the new features check out Nest's blog.
