What To Know
- The Nest Doorbell subscription, known as Nest Aware, is an optional service that unlocks additional features and functionalities beyond the basic capabilities of the device.
- With Nest Aware, you can store and review video footage captured by your Nest Doorbell for up to 30 days or 60 days, depending on your subscription plan.
- Instead of storing video footage in the cloud, you can connect your Nest Doorbell to a local storage device, such as a microSD card, to save recordings.
Nest Doorbell, a smart home security device designed by Google, has revolutionized the way homeowners monitor their properties. With its advanced features and sleek design, the Nest Doorbell has become a popular choice among those seeking enhanced home security. However, one question that often arises is whether the Nest Doorbell requires a subscription to fully utilize its capabilities. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the subscription requirements of the Nest Doorbell and provide detailed information to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Nest Doorbell Subscription
The Nest Doorbell subscription, known as Nest Aware, is an optional service that unlocks additional features and functionalities beyond the basic capabilities of the device. While the Nest Doorbell can operate without a subscription, certain features are only accessible with an active subscription.
Features Available Without a Subscription
Even without a subscription, the Nest Doorbell offers a range of valuable features to enhance your home security:
- Live Video Streaming: You can view live video footage from your Nest Doorbell anytime, anywhere, using the Google Home app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Motion Detection and Alerts: The Nest Doorbell detects motion and sends notifications to your smartphone or tablet when someone approaches your door.
- Two-Way Audio: Communicate with visitors at your door through the Nest Doorbell’s built-in speaker and microphone.
- Night Vision: The Nest Doorbell provides clear night vision, allowing you to see visitors and activity even in low-light conditions.
Benefits of a Nest Aware Subscription
Subscribing to Nest Aware unlocks a host of advanced features that further enhance the functionality of your Nest Doorbell:
- Video History: With Nest Aware, you can store and review video footage captured by your Nest Doorbell for up to 30 days or 60 days, depending on your subscription plan.
- Person Detection: The Nest Doorbell can distinguish between people and objects, sending alerts specifically for human activity.
- Package Detection: The Nest Doorbell can identify and alert you when packages are delivered to your doorstep.
- Activity Zones: You can define specific areas within the camera’s field of view where you want to receive motion alerts.
- Facial Recognition: Nest Aware allows you to tag familiar faces and receive alerts when they are detected by the Nest Doorbell.
- Cloud Recording: All video footage captured by your Nest Doorbell is securely stored in the cloud, ensuring that you can access it from anywhere.
Subscription Plans and Pricing
Nest Aware offers two subscription plans to cater to different needs and budgets:
- Nest Aware: This basic plan provides 30 days of video history and all the features mentioned above, except facial recognition. It is priced at $6 per month or $60 per year.
- Nest Aware Plus: This premium plan includes 60 days of video history, facial recognition, and an extended warranty for your Nest Doorbell. It is priced at $12 per month or $120 per year.
Is a Subscription Worth It?
Whether a Nest Aware subscription is worth it depends on your individual needs and requirements. If you value the added security and convenience of features like video history, person detection, and package alerts, then a subscription may be a worthwhile investment. However, if you are satisfied with the basic features offered without a subscription, you may not find the additional cost of a subscription justified.
Alternatives to Nest Doorbell Subscription
If you are looking for alternative ways to enhance the functionality of your Nest Doorbell without a subscription, consider the following options:
- Local Storage: Instead of storing video footage in the cloud, you can connect your Nest Doorbell to a local storage device, such as a microSD card, to save recordings.
- Third-Party Apps: Explore third-party apps that integrate with the Nest Doorbell and offer additional features, such as extended video history or advanced motion detection.
- DIY Solutions: If you are tech-savvy, you can explore DIY solutions, such as setting up your own video surveillance system using open-source software and hardware.
Making an Informed Decision
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to subscribe to Nest Aware is a personal one. Weigh the benefits and costs of the subscription against your specific needs and budget to determine if it is the right choice for you.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q1: Can I use my Nest Doorbell without a subscription?
A1: Yes, you can use the Nest Doorbell without a subscription. However, you will only have access to basic features such as live video streaming, motion detection, and two-way audio.
Q2: What features does the Nest Aware subscription offer?
A2: The Nest Aware subscription offers features such as video history, person detection, package detection, activity zones, facial recognition, and cloud recording.
Q3: How much does a Nest Aware subscription cost?
A3: The Nest Aware subscription costs $6 per month or $60 per year for the basic plan and $12 per month or $120 per year for the premium plan.
Q4: Can I store video footage without a Nest Aware subscription?
A4: Yes, you can store video footage without a Nest Aware subscription by connecting your Nest Doorbell to a local storage device, such as a microSD card.
Q5: Are there any alternatives to a Nest Aware subscription?
A5: Yes, you can explore third-party apps that integrate with the Nest Doorbell or set up your own DIY video surveillance system using open-source software and hardware.
