Google has announced a new Nest thermostat, and you probably won’t fall over in shock to discover that, like seemingly every new tech device, its intelligent features are AI-powered: in this case, by Google’s own Gemini.
The new thermostat model has been a long time coming. The simple and beautifully designed 3rd Gen thermostat was launched way back in 2015. But in the intervening time, similarly design-led, easy-to-use models from brands such as Ecobee in the US and Hive in the UK have gained ground.
So, what does the 4th Gen model do that’ll set it apart from rivals? We’ve got all the information you need, including price, release date and features.
When will the Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen launch?
In the US, the 4th Gen is available for pre-order now from Google’s official store as well as Amazon US and Canada.
It goes on sale on 20 August.
At this stage the Nest thermostat is a a US-only release. We’ve contacted Google to find out if there are any plans for a UK launch at any stage in the future and will update this article when we know more.
How much does the Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen cost?
It’s available for $279.99 in the US and $379.99 in Canada.
What specs and features does the Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen have?
Design
The thermostat itself has been completely redesigned. Its 2.7-inch screen is 60% larger than the previous model, and the bezel is hidden behind layers of mirror and coloured films for a seamless finish.
Apparently it was inspired by the design of the Pixel Watch, which, according to Wired, was inspired by the design of the Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Gen, suggesting that there may be a lot of group hugging going on in the Google design department.
You’ll still interact with it in the same way you did with the 3rd Gen model, by rotating the dial to change the target temperature and pressing for more information.
It comes in three colours: Polished Silver, Polished Gold and Polished Obsidian. That’s fewer than the 3rd Gen, although you’re unlikely to be disappointed with the options on offer.
The key display feature is what Google is calling Dynamic Farsight. Thanks to the Soli radar sensor inside thermostat, which is like a very efficient motion detector, it can detect when someone is near, and it’ll update its screen accordingly.
When no one is nearby, it shows a clock face. Then, as someone approaches, an animation of the weather outside will appear, along with the indoor temperature.
Sustainability is literally built into the device: not only will its AI features help to save energy whenever possible (more on this later) but it uses 100% recycled cobalt in the battery, which Google says is a world-first.
One-third of the device’s materials overall are recycled, its packaging is all recyclable, and Google promises that it’s built to last.
Smart features
But it’s the new smart features which should sell it. It will quickly learn your habits and then, via its Smart Schedule function, suggest changes to your heating and cooling schedule to save energy and keep you comfortable.
Users will receive notifications of suggestions and can choose whether to accept them – or they can let the thermostat makes changes automatically. It will also take the outside weather into consideration when heating or cooling your home for maximum efficiency.
In its “Adaptive Eco” mode, it will go into energy-saving mode when you’re out. This is similar to Tado’s “geofencing” feature, which uses your smartphone’s GPS to determine your location. But the Nest 4th Gen doesn’t have to rely on this alone, as it has the added advantage of the motion-detecting Soli sensor in the thermostat.
If you come home unexpectedly while it’s in energy-saving mode, it aims to return your house to an ideal temperature within an hour of your arrival.
Sensors
One of the issues with any smart thermostat is that it bases its heating and cooling decisions on the temperature of the room in which it’s installed.
The Nest 4th Gen comes with an all-new, pebble-like Nest Temperature sensor, which you can put elsewhere in your home. The thermostat can then use both readings to make determinations and avoid certain rooms, such as a baby’s room, being left too cold.
But you don’t need to be limited to two rooms. You can buy an additional sensor for $39.99 (or three for $99.99) to place around your home.
If you have an existing Nest thermostat and would like this feature, there’s good news: the sensors will work with older Nest thermostats as well.
Compatibility
Google says that this is its most widely compatible thermostat ever, designed to work with complicated home heating and cooling systems: heat pumps, humidifiers, dehumidifiers and ventilation systems. If you have the latter, the Nest 4th Gen will monitor outdoor air quality and pause ventilation automatically in poor conditions.
It’s also Matter-compatible, so if you want to build your smart home system around the new standard, it’s an option to consider.
The Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen promises much. We’ll find out if it delivers when we review it. In the meantime, see our top recommendations for the best smart thermostats we’ve tested.
The thermostat isn’t Google’s only new announcement. Find out about its new TV streamer, which could rival Apple’s 4K TV.
Author: Emma Rowley, Group Home Tech Editor, Tech Advisor
Emma has been a journalist and copywriter for over 20 years and has been testing and writing about home tech and appliances for seven years. She tries out every appliance she writes about at home, and aims to recommend time- and energy-saving products that will last.