During a press event in San Francisco last week, Nest Labs announced the launch of its smart home security system, Nest Secure, which includes the Nest Secure alarm system, Nest Hello video doorbell, and Nest Cam IQ outdoor security camera.
The Nest Secure alarm system is a security system the company says is easy for busy homeowners to work with. The line includes three products: the Nest Guard, an all-in-one security base that provides the alarm, keypad and a motion sensor; Nest Detect, a sensor that detects both motion and open or close movement, such as that of a window opening or closing, in one compact, battery-powered product; and Nest Tag; is a fob that can attach to a keychain, allowing you to easily arm and disarm Nest Secure without a passcode.
Homeowners can control the Nest alarm system by tapping Nest Tag onto Nest Guard, through the Nest app, or by entering a code on the Nest Guard keypad. Users can also monitor the alarm system from anywhere using the app, which will also send notifications if it detects something is wrong.
Nest Guard is designed to remain on guard – with battery backup and an optional cellular backup service – even if Wi-Fi is down or the power is out. The motion sensors can detect movement in the home when placed on a wall, and detect open or closed windows and doors. The system also provides the option to temporarily bypass the alarm on the way out, with the press of a button with the Quiet Open feature. If someone forgets to turn on the alarm, Nest will send a Remind Me notification to arm it directly from the app.
The Nest Hello Video Doorbell monitors the front door, and can detect a person, then send an alert and a snapshot to the homeowners smartphone, even if that person doesn’t ring the bell. Homeowners can also engage with guests and strangers at the door from anywhere with HD Talk and Listen. A list of pre-recorded responses makes it easy to quickly and effortlessly answer visitors with one tap from the app.
Expanding its line of indoor security cameras, Nest is also introducing the Nest Cam IQ Outdoor, which is compatible with Google Assistant. It’s the first security camera to have the Google Assistant built in, says Nest, and will be available via a free software update for all current and new customers this winter.
Through their Works with Nest software system, Nest has also partnered with lock manufacturer Yale to create a new lock that can securely communicate with Nest Secure and other Nest products, even if the power is out or there's no Internet connection. Customers can disarm the Nest Secure alarm system when they unlock the Nest + Yale lock, and they’ll be able to unlock the door when they notice a friend (or delivery person) through the Nest Hello video doorbell. The Nest + Yale lock will be available early next year.
Nest also partnered with lighting companies including Lutron, LIFX, and Philips to control lights remotely to make it look like homeowners are home while away to help prevent break-ins.
Nest Secure can be pre-ordered beginning today on nest.com and will ship in November. The Nest Secure starter pack, which includes Nest Guard, two Nest Detects and two Nest Tags, has a suggested retail price of $499. A Nest Secure starter pack plus Nest Cam Outdoor will be available on nest.com and at Best Buy for $598. The individual camera costs $349 or $598 for two. Customers will be able to purchase additional Nest Detects for $59 and Nest Tags for $25.
