Skip to main content

Google rolls out new Nest Cam features to Google Home for web

Nest Cams on a counter.
Nest

While many users access Google Home on their smartphone or smart display, the platform is also available via web browser. The web-based Google Home experience wasn’t exactly the best way to access your smart devices, but that’s rapidly changing as Google rolls out new updates to the client — the latest of which adds a ton of new ways to access your Nest Cams.

Google began rolling out the update late last week, and most users should now have access to the improved Google Home for web experience. The big draw is access to your Nest Cam history and the option to download clips. Prior to this update, it was impossible to view recorded clips via Google Home for web, forcing you to instead jump into the official Google Home app.

The updated Google Home for web app.
Google

Other notable additions to the platform include the ability to customize your video clips and access to Public Preview content. Google notes that the custom clips functionality will be “rolling out over the next few weeks” and will support Nest Cam and Nest Doorbell products. If you can’t access the new functionality yet, you might need to wait a few more days for the update to reach your account.

Recommended Videos

If you’re a fan of testing out new features before they go live, be sure to check out Public Preview. This gives you access to up-and-coming features — though you might run into a few bugs during use. Now that this program is available to Google Home for the web, here’s a look at some of what you can access:

  • A script editor for Google Home automation.
  • Garage door detection for Nest Aware members
  • Added support for first-gen Nest Cams

Keep in mind you’ll need a Nest Aware subscription to access most of these features, which starts at $8 per month. To check out the updated Google Home for web platform, head over to home.google.com.

Jon Bitner
Jon Bitner is a writer covering consumer electronics, technology, and gaming. His work has been published on various websites…
Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam vs. Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In (3rd Gen): Which is better?
The Stick Up Cam installed on a wall.

Two of Ring's most popular security cameras are the Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam and Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-In (3rd Gen). Both are relatively affordable, yet packed with premium features that make them great for guarding your home. But which one is better for your needs -- the newer Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam or the classic Stick Up Cam Plug-In (3rd Gen)? Here's a closer look at both to help you decide.
Pricing and monthly fees

Despite being the newer product, the Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam is cheaper than the Stick Up Cam Plug-In. It costs just $80 compared to the Stick Up Cam Plug-In at $100. Additionally, if you'd like to pan and tilt the Stick Up Cam, you'll need to bundle it with the Pan-Tilt Mount for a total of $145. Regardless of which camera you choose, a Ring Protect subscription is all but a necessity. The lowest tier costs $5 per month and unlocks key features like 180-day video history, rich notifications, snapshot capture, and more.

Read more
Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam vs. Ring Indoor Cam (2nd Gen): Which is the better security camera?
The Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam on a wooden shelf.

One of the newest members of the Ring family is the Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam, offering a 360-degree view of your home. It's certainly a nifty indoor security camera, but since it’s a bit more expensive than the existing Indoor Cam (2nd Gen), you might be wondering which is best for your smart home.

Thankfully, it's hard to go wrong with either. Both products are great at protecting your home, and both are likely to last for years before running into issues. But if you're trying to get the most out of your purchase, here's a complete look at the Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam and Ring Indoor Cam (2nd Gen) to help you decide which is better for your needs.
Pricing and monthly fees

Read more
Echo Show 10 vs. Nest Hub (2nd Gen): which smart display is better for your home?
The Echo Show 10 on a kitchen counter.

When it comes to smart displays, few are as popular as the Echo Show 10 and Nest Hub (2nd Gen). Both are incredibly powerful devices, allowing you to quickly check your calendar, get updates on the weather, or dive into a variety of entertainment apps. However, there are a few key differences between these devices -- including screen size, available apps, and supported smart home platforms.

Ready to add one of these smart displays to your home? Here's what you need to know before making a purchase to ensure you're picking the best smart display for your needs.
Pricing and design

Read more