Say Goodbye to Support: Google Phases Out Software Updates for Early Nest Thermostats

Google has made a significant announcement: it’s ending software updates for the first-generation Nest Learning Thermostat and its second-gen model, both released in 2011 and 2012. This change will also impact the European version launched in 2014. From October 25th, users will lose remote access to control their thermostats through their phones or Google Assistant. However, you can still adjust settings directly on the device itself.

In addition to this update, Google confirmed that they won’t be releasing new Nest thermostats in Europe. They explained that Europe has unique heating systems with various hardware and software needs, making it tough to create compatible devices. While the newer models, like the Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd gen) and the Nest Thermostat E, will still be available in Europe until stock runs out, this news might be a letdown for customers hoping for new options.

This shift could frustrate longtime users of the Nest hardware. While the basic features of the thermostats remain, the convenience of remote control will vanish. The earlier models can still function without Wi-Fi, which isn’t the case for some newer ones.

As smart home devices become more common, concerns about their longevity grow. Is 14 years a fair lifespan for such technology? With no plans for Google to open-source the hardware, users may feel stuck with devices that gradually lose their smart capabilities.

To soften the blow, Google is offering discounts: $130 off the fourth-generation Nest Learning Thermostat in the U.S., $160 in Canada, and a 50% discount on the Tado Smart Thermostat X in Europe. This gesture might help ease customer frustration as the Nest lineup starts to phase out.

Looking back, the Nest thermostat was first introduced when the company was independent, led by Tony Fadell, a former Apple executive. Google acquired it in 2014 for a whopping $3.2 billion. It’s interesting to consider how far the technology and user expectations have come since then.

While these changes are a step back for some users, they reflect the rapid pace of technological advancements in our homes. As we embrace smart devices, it’s essential to stay informed about their evolving nature and the company’s support commitments.



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