Home automation systems from Google are experiencing issues, leading to user annoyance.
Google Nest users have been encountering a series of technical issues with their smart home devices, including smart speakers, cameras, and thermostats. The problems, which became more noticeable after Google's transition of Assistant to a new platform called Gemini, have left users frustrated and seeking solutions.
Anish Kattukaran, Chief Product Officer for Home and Nest at Google, has acknowledged the reliability issues users have faced. In a public statement, Kattukaran expressed the company's commitment to delivering a long-term solution to improve the reliability and capability of Google Nest devices. However, the full, proper fixes are expected to roll out only in fall 2025.
The issues with Nest smart speakers and displays have been ongoing since at least January 2025, linked to the Assistant platform transition. Nest Cameras have experienced persistent "no video available yet" errors and camera stream interruptions. A recent software patch reduced the frequency of these errors but did not completely resolve them, indicating that Google is still actively working on solutions.
Some Nest Thermostat users, particularly those with the 4th generation model, have reported being unable to open the thermostat controller in the Google Home app or control the thermostat remotely due to connectivity errors. Google’s engineering team is currently investigating these issues.
In addition, Google announced it will end support for older Nest thermostats (1st and 2nd generation) starting October 2025, which may contribute to user frustration as devices lose official support.
The root causes of these issues involve software platform transitions and legacy device support limitations. Google is responding by developing major improvements scheduled for release in fall 2025, while ongoing patches are being deployed to mitigate some issues in the meantime.
Users experiencing problems with their Google Nest and Google Home devices can try troubleshooting by restarting, checking WiFi connection, and updating software. If devices are crucial for safety, users might consider buying alternative devices like medication reminder alarms or medical alert devices, some of which do not require a subscription.
As of now, users are waiting for Google to deliver on its promise to restore stability. For those who rely on Google Nest devices for health and safety, such as medication reminders and backup safety devices, the malfunctioning devices pose a real risk. Some users have resorted to turning off and disconnecting their devices due to the issues.
If you are having trouble with your Google Nest devices, the Google Nest Help page offers additional tips and an option to contact Google for more help. Users are advised to ensure the device they choose will work with their home WiFi or cell service provider before making a purchase.
[1] TechCrunch
[2] 9to5Google
[3] Google Support
[4] 9to5Google
[5] Google Blog
Smart-home device owners, particularly Google Nest users, have been grappling with a series of technical issues, raising concerns about the reliability of various gadgets such as smart speakers, cameras, thermostats, and other technology. The problems, which have intensified since Google's transition of Assistant to the Gemini platform, have triggered a search for solutions among affected users. These persistent issues have resulted in frustration, and some users have resorted to seeking alternative devices for health and safety purposes, like medication reminder alarms or medical alert devices, while waiting for Google to address the problems.
