Google unveils low-cost Nest Thermostat that replaces mechanical wheel with touch controls

[Shawn Knight]

In brief: Google’s Nest on Monday introduced a more affordable version of the smart thermostat that put Nest on the map nearly a decade ago. The thermostat is a bit thinner than previous models due to the fact that Nest replaced the traditional spinning wheel mechanism with a touch-sensitive pad along the edges. It also utilizes Soli motion sensing technology in conjunction with your phone’s location to determine when you have left home and can adjust the temperature automatically as to not heat or cool an empty house.

Ruchi Desai, a senior product manager at Google Nest, said saving energy is the number one reason why people seek out a smart thermostat. The new Nest Thermostat excels in this area, allowing users to set custom temperatures at different times and on different days via the Quick Schedule feature in the Google Home app.

Savings Finder, meanwhile, helps users identify small optimizations that can add up to big energy savings, such as adjusting the temperature at night while you sleep. It is also equipped with a feature announced earlier this year that can alert users to potential issues with their HVAC systems.

Nest’s latest can be installed in under 30 minutes, Google said, and is compatible with most homes. Still, you’ll want to consult the compatibility guide if you are new to smart thermostats before purchasing.

The new Nest Thermostat is available to pre-order from today priced at $129.99 in your choice of white, pink, black or green color schemes. The optional trim kit will set you back an additional $14.99, should you need it. Look for them both to ship in the coming weeks.

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https://www.techspot.com/news/87074-google-unveils-low-cost-nest-thermostat-replaces-mechanical.html

 

[Irata]

Still don‘t see the use for something like this. For most rooms a regular thermostat is fine and in some I have a programmable offline thermostat that is pretty cheap and does its job just fine.

 

[wiyosaya]

I don't see a use for this either. However, I do wonder, since it is an IoT device, whether they also improved security features, if it had any to begin with.

 

[Uncle Al]

I can see the convenience for someone that works odd hours, takes frequent trips and simply does not have a regular 9-5 schedule but considering what is involved I still think it's over priced by a factor of 2x compared with similar devices. I'll continue to hold out for the time being .......

 

[Reehahs]

I can see the convenience for someone that works odd hours, takes frequent trips and simply does not have a regular 9-5 schedule but considering what is involved I still think it's over priced by a factor of 2x compared with similar devices. I'll continue to hold out for the time being .......

I had the same opinion, until I got the previous version when replacing the boiler.

Now I love the fact that with a phone I can turn the heating on while still in bed and off if ending up staying out late. The learned schedule is pretty good too.

 

[tekjunkie28]

These things are junk. A basic thermostat with 4 buttons and non programmable starts at $50. A thermostat can not save you money on your electric bill. Want to save money? Air seal your house and THEN add insulation. If you want to change your temp via wifi then get one this is just simple wifi. Anyone in HVAC knows when they get a call and see these or the Ecobees then its automatic replacement.