Skip to main content

Is Nest planning to get into the home security business?

A few weeks ago, we predicted Nest’s next product would be a smart outlet. The Google-owned smart-device maker prides itself on updating “unloved” home products, such as thermostats and smoke detectors. However, if ADT has any say in the matter, they’ll likely want Nest to roll out some smart alarms.

The home security company is eager to partner with Nest, according to Forbes. ADT CEO Naren Gursahaney tells Forbes, “We’re working feverishly to develop the partnership.” While ADT already has a system, Pulse, that users can control remotely, lots of competitors are trying to get into the smart home security market via Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and the like. From video doorbells to hubs to tiny sensors, it seems like lots of products offer home protection as a bonus, instead of the main focus. And all of them come without the monthly fee of a system like ADT. If Nest does want to go the security route, it would be time-consuming and costly to set up call centers that can contact police and fire departments. It would be much easier to piggyback on ADT’s already established ones.

Recommended Videos

About seven million customers pay ADT’s monthly fee, which has to be attractive to Nest. After all, a recent survey found that many consumers had no idea products like smart thermostats and smoke alarms even exist. The exposure to that customer base could raise Nest’s profile. However, the company is staying mum for now. “We don’t have anything to share on the topic at this time,” Nest spokeswoman Zoz Cuccias told Forbes.

Ironically, a partnership with Nest might raise security concerns for ADT. Wi-Fi-enabled devices could be vulnerable to hacks, which is the last thing anyone wants from an alarm system. Still, for those who want smart home devices, connected alarms are among the most coveted items.

With Nest being cagey about the potential partnership, it’s not clear when, if ever, we could see it ruling the smart home security roost.

Jenny McGrath
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Jenny McGrath is a senior writer at Digital Trends covering the intersection of tech and the arts and the environment. Before…
Ring Outdoor Cam Plus vs. Spotlight Cam Plus: which is better for your home?
The Ring Outdoor Cam Plus on a wall

While Ring is widely known for its lineup of video doorbells, the brand is also responsible for an excellent catalog of security cameras and spotlights. Two of its most popular options are the Spotlight Cam Plus and the new Outdoor Cam Plus. Both feature premium designs, impressive motion detection skills, and highly adjustable settings -- making them ideal for most properties.

But is the Outdoor Cam Plus or Spotlight Cam Plus better for your home? From pricing and resolution to monthly fees and installation, here's a closer look at how these two compare.
Pricing and monthly fees

Read more
Ring Outdoor Cam Plus vs. Outdoor Cam: should you upgrade to Ring’s new security camera?
The Ring Outdoor Cam

If you're shopping for a reliable and reasonably priced outdoor security camera, you've probably stumbled upon the Ring Outdoor Cam and the newer Ring Outdoor Cam Plus. Both offer excellent price tags and a long list of useful features that make them perfect for most households. However, there are also a few big differences between the Outdoor Cam and Outdoor Cam Plus -- including resolution and the quality of footage captured at night.

Ready to add one to your home? Here's a comparison of the Ring Outdoor Cam Plus and Ring Outdoor Cam to help you decide which is the better purchase.
Pricing and monthly fees

Read more
Did the Apple HomePad just get leaked by Apple itself?
A mockup of a HomePod with an iPad attached.

The long rumoured Apple HomePad - a HomePod with a screen - may have just been revealed by none other than Apple itself.

After diving into the iOS 18.4 beta release, it's been noticed by the team over at Macworld that many changes are pointing towards entirely new hardware for Apple, soon.

Read more