Google has recently made significant changes to its smart home product lineup, discontinuing two of its popular devices: the Nest Thermostat E and the Nest Protect smoke and carbon monoxide detector. These decisions are part of a broader shift in Google’s strategy for its smart home ecosystem. Below is a detailed explanation of these changes and their implications.

Step 1: Discontinuation of Nest Thermostat E

The Nest Thermostat E, which was once a more affordable alternative to the flagship Nest Learning Thermostat, has been officially discontinued in certain regions like the United States. However, it remains available through select channels such as Nest Pro installers in some areas. The discontinuation aligns with Google’s focus on newer models like the 4th-generation Nest Learning Thermostat, which features updated technology such as air quality monitoring and compatibility with advanced temperature sensors.1 2

This move reflects Google’s intent to streamline its thermostat offerings while integrating more advanced features into its newer products. For example, leaked images suggest that upcoming thermostats will include Soli radar for motion detection and improved integration with Google Home routines.3

Step 2: Discontinuation of Nest Protect

The Nest Protect, a smart smoke and carbon monoxide detector known for its innovative features like remote silence, monthly self-tests, and integration with other Nest devices, has also been discontinued. Google announced that it would no longer manufacture new units but assured existing users that their devices would continue functioning until they expire (approximately 10 years from the manufacturing date). Security updates will also be provided during this period.4 5

To fill the gap left by the Nest Protect, Google is collaborating with First Alert to release a replacement product called the First Alert Smart Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm. This device offers similar features to the Nest Protect but integrates seamlessly into Google’s evolving smart home ecosystem via the Google Home app.6

Step 3: Shift in Strategy – A Platform-Based Approach

Google’s decision to discontinue these products is part of a larger strategic shift toward creating an inclusive smart home platform that supports devices from multiple manufacturers. By focusing on software development and partnerships (e.g., with ADT for security systems or First Alert for safety devices), Google aims to enhance interoperability within its ecosystem while reducing reliance on proprietary hardware.7 8

For instance:

The transition from the standalone Nest App to the unified Google Home App is central to this strategy.

Devices like cameras, thermostats, and alarms are being integrated into Matter-compatible ecosystems to ensure broader compatibility across brands.

This approach allows third-party manufacturers to develop hardware compatible with Google’s platform while enabling Google to concentrate on software innovation.

Step 4: Implications for Users

While these changes may disappoint fans of the discontinued products, they signal a long-term commitment by Google to improve user experience through enhanced compatibility and smarter integrations:

Existing users of discontinued products like Nest Protect can continue using their devices until they reach end-of-life.

Newer alternatives (e.g., First Alert alarms) provide similar functionality while aligning better with Google’s updated ecosystem.

The introduction of Matter support ensures that future smart home setups will be more flexible and less dependent on single-brand ecosystems.9 10

Conclusion

Google’s decision to discontinue the Nest Thermostat E and Nest Protect marks a significant pivot in its smart home strategy. By focusing on partnerships, software development, and platform-based solutions like Matter compatibility, Google aims to create a more inclusive and interoperable smart home ecosystem while phasing out older proprietary hardware.