Google has ceased providing updates for these specific devices: impacted devices listed.
Google to Alter Product Strategy, Impacting Older Nest Thermostat Users
Google is planning some changes in its product strategy this year that'll hit many older Nest thermostat users hard. In Autumn 2025, Google will halt support for the first-gen Nest thermostats. There'll be no new products in this range available in Europe.
Time to Say Goodbye on October 25, 2025
Last week, Google made an announcement that from October 25, 2025, it'll cease providing software updates for the initial and second generations of Nest Learning Thermostats. The termination of support through the Nest and Home apps will follow suit. Affected devices are the 2011 and 2012 releases, along with the European version from 2014. Although the thermostats can function independently for temperature control and scheduling, smartphone app and voice assistant functionalities might be limited or unavailable.
A Shift Towards the Future
Google justified this decision by stating its desire to focus on future developments. In an official statement, it acknowledged that to offer users the most advanced features on the latest Nest thermostats, it would discontinue support for some older devices that are now over a decade old. This move aligns with a broader industry trend where tech companies cease active support for older hardware generations after a certain period.
No More New Nest Thermostats in Europe
A significant change arising is that Google will cease launching new Nest thermostats in Europe. The company reasoned this due to the high diversity of heating systems in Europe, which differ significantly from those in North America, necessitating distinct hardware and software solutions, thereby complicating development for Europe. Despite this, existing Nest products will continue to be sold in Europe while supplies last. For European customers seeking new models long-term, it's advisable to explore alternatives.
Preparing for the Change
This change implies that owners of the affected Nest thermostats will no longer receive new features and may face limitations in app usage. While those who mainly use their devices manually may initially notice little change, those relying on smart home system integration or regular security updates are recommended to contemplate replacement in the long term.
Alternatives Ahead
For European users facing discontinuation of new Nest models, several alternatives can be considered:
- Tado Smart Thermostat X Starter Kit: Despite issues with setup and Matter integration[1], Tado remains a renowned smart thermostat brand.
- Other Established Smart Thermostat Brands: Given Google's encouragement to third-party companies for smart thermostat development tailored for European heating systems[2], various options from compatible smart home device specialists might become available.
- Alternative Smart Home Platforms: Users could contemplate switching to other smart thermostat systems like those from Hive, Honeywell, or brands committed to the European market.
- Future Google Home Partnerships: Although Google halts production of Nest thermostats in Europe, it continues to support smart home integration through its Google Home platform, which could spawn more compatible devices from other manufacturers[2].
Explore these alternatives and plan for the future to ensure continuity of smart functionality. Remember, immediate control can still be exercised directly on the thermostat, even after support ends. Happy smart home adaptation!
[1] https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/04/08/1019903/tado-smart-thermostats-homekit-review/[2] https://www.theverge.com/2021/2/23/22300657/nest-thermostat-europe-discontinued-google-home-integration[3] https://support.google.com/googlenest/answer/3380705?hl=en&ref_topic=3380698&co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop
- Google has announced that it will cease providing software updates for the first-gen and second-gen Nest Learning Thermostats, including the 2011, 2012, and 2014 European versions, on October 25, 2025.
- In the future, Google will stop supporting the Nest thermostats, meaning users may face limitations in app usage and access to new features.
- The tech company will also discontinue launching new Nest thermostats in Europe due to the varying heating systems, but existing products will still be sold while supplies last.
- As a result of these changes, European users might consider alternatives such as the Tado Smart Thermostat X Starter Kit, other established smart thermostat brands, switching to alternative smart thermostat systems, or looking forward to potential partnerships between Google Home and other smart-home device manufacturers.
