Is Google About to Turn Up the Heat with a New Nest Thermostat?

Nest Prepares to Heat Things Up: Leaked Images Reveal a New Learning Thermostat and Temperature Sensors

The smart home world is buzzing with anticipation as leaked images suggest Google is gearing up to release a fourth-generation Nest Learning Thermostat. These images, posted on X by user @MysteryLupin, have ignited speculation about the new thermostat’s features, design, and potential release date.

The leaked images showcase the new Learning Thermostat alongside existing Nest models, including the Nest E, the third-generation Nest Learning Thermostat, and the Nest Thermostat (2020). Notable by its absence is the Nest Thermostat (2020), which, according to sources, is likely incompatible with the new temperature sensors.

The new Nest Learning Thermostat, while bearing resemblance to its third-generation predecessor, boasts a more curved display while retaining the familiar physical dial. This curved display is likely a touchscreen similar to the third-generation model, as evidenced by leaked images displaying a new icon with three wavy lines. This icon hints at a major new feature: an indoor air quality monitoring system, a significant addition to the Nest thermostat family.

Supporting this air quality monitoring theory is a leaked screenshot of the Google Home app. The screenshot displays a new "Climate" screen showcasing an air quality index score, providing users with valuable insights into the air quality within their homes.

The images also reveal a redesigned Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen). Similar to the current model, this new sensor is compatible with wall mounting or placement on a table. However, a noticeable change is the absence of the Nest branding. The new sensor is also rounder and more "squishier-looking", departing from its predecessors’ more angular design.

According to leaks, these new sensors will be priced at $39 each, or three for $99, and offer a three-year battery life. This price point mirrors the current sensors, which serve to collect temperature readings from different rooms and relay that data to the thermostat, facilitating more efficient heating and cooling. However, as we outlined in our previous review, they are somewhat limited compared to competitors like Ecobee, particularly in terms of presence detection. Hopefully, these new versions will address this deficiency and offer enhanced functionality.

Further exploration by 9to5Google has unearthed FCC filings providing insight into the potential capabilities of the new thermostat. The filings indicate the presence of Google’s Soli radar technology, a feature that previously graced the Nest Thermostat (2020) but was absent in the third-generation Nest Learning Thermostat. Soli promises to enhance user interaction by illuminating the thermostat’s display upon approach and enabling presence detection. This latter function will be particularly valuable for integration into Google’s Home & Away Routines, allowing for more personalized and intelligent home management.

Google’s last foray into the Learning Thermostat realm was in 2015, a considerable time ago. The Learning Thermostat distinguishes itself from its non-Learning counterpart by actively adapting to user heating and cooling patterns rather than strictly adhering to a set schedule. While the Nest Thermostat (2020) offered a cost-effective option, it lacked the Learning Thermostat’s adaptive capabilities.

This upcoming release signifies a significant move by Google to revitalize its Nest lineup with innovative features and a fresh design. The focus on air quality monitoring, alongside the addition of Soli radar technology, suggests a greater emphasis on user experience and home automation.

While the official release date remains shrouded in mystery, these leaks offer a glimpse into the exciting future of smart home technology. Google’s Nest Learning Thermostat has long held a prominent position in the smart home market, and this new iteration, with its advanced features and design, has the potential to solidify its dominance.

Key Takeaways:

• Google is expected to release a new fourth-generation Nest Learning Thermostat.
• The new thermostat features a more curved display, likely a touchscreen, and incorporates indoor air quality monitoring.
• It will be compatible with redesigned Nest Temperature Sensors (2nd gen) that are rounder and lack the Nest branding.
• The new thermostat may include Google’s Soli radar technology for display illumination and presence detection.
• The release of a new Learning Thermostat signifies Google’s commitment to innovation in the smart home space.

More Information:

• Source of the Leaked Images: @MysteryLupin on X
• Articles on the New Thermostat and Temperature Sensors:
  • 9to5Google: New Google Nest Thermostat Leaks with New Temperature Sensor
  • The Verge: Nest Thermostat (2020) Review
• Articles on Soli Radar Technology:
  • 9to5Google: New Google FCC Nest Thermostat
  • The Verge: Google FCC Wireless Device 60GHz Radar Leak
• Articles on Nest Temperature Sensors:
  • The Verge: Nest Thermostat Remote Temperature Sensors Review
• Articles on Ecobee Smart Thermostats:
  • The Verge: Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium Enhanced Review
• Google Store: Current Nest Temperature Sensor

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