The Google Nest Secure alarm system was a huge announcement for Google that many people believed to be the next big thing, but according to a report, Google is discontinuing the Nest Secure. However, existing users can expect continued support of the system for the time being.
The Nest Secure system originally launched at $499 in 2017, but dropped within a year to $399. The original model included a central hub, door and window sensors, and several other sensors known as Nest Detects. Nest Secure came under fire a couple of years later in 2019 when Google announced Google Assistant support for the device, revealing an onboard microphone that users had not previously known about.
This raised many privacy concerns regarding the always-listening nature of smart devices, many of which are still debated today. The reason why Google decided to discontinue the Nest Secure system isn’t clear, but Google does emphasize one point: the company is not out of the home security game.
In addition to Nest Secure, Google produces the Nest lineup of home security cameras, thermostats, and other smart home devices. Google also partnered with ADT after a $450 million investment. This means that ADT will integrate Nest devices into their lineup, giving Google a very real presence in an established home security company.
It is possible Google decided to discontinue the Nest Secure because it was not profitable enough to maintain. With the ready availability of devices like the Nest Hello Doorbell, the Nest Outdoor/Indoor Security Camera, and other options like this, customers are able to put together their own home security system piecemeal and choose only the coverages they want. For many customers, a door/window sensor would be redundant if they already had a security camera watching the entrances — plus there are plenty of other security systems to consider.
Another possibility is that the Nest Secure system has been pulled from stores so it can be reworked and redesigned. However, this is unlikely. The company has a long history of launching projects and then abandoning them if they do not work out as intended, even long-term projects. A few of these include Google TV, Google Hangouts, and even Google Play Music. We’ve reached out to the company for comment, but haven’t received a reply yet.
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