What To Do With Your Old Nest Gadgets Since Google Ended Support
Key Points:
- Google may end support for smart devices like the Nest Learning Thermostat at any time, rendering them without smart functionality but still usable manually or repurposed.
- Users with unsupported Nest devices can recycle them through Google's program or attempt to install custom firmware, such as the open-source software developed by No Longer Evil, to restore smart features.
- The No Longer Evil firmware is still in development and may cause device malfunctions, so users should weigh the risks before installation, though many have reported successful setups.
- Unsupported Nest thermostats can still be manually controlled for temperature settings and routines, maintaining basic functionality despite loss of integration with Google Home.
- Some users advocate for companies to release open-source software for smart devices to extend their lifespan, avoiding the need to purchase costly replacements when official support ends.