Users of Nest Doorbells and cameras will now pay significantly more for essential features, prompting concerns over cloud-based device costs.
Nest Aware Just Got More Expensive
Google has increased the prices for its Nest Aware subscriptions, making it 25–33% more expensive for users of Nest Doorbells and Nest cameras—devices that rely heavily on paid cloud access to be fully functional.
- The standard Nest Aware plan now costs $10/month or $100/year, up from $8/month or $80/year—a 25% hike.
- The Nest Aware Plus plan, offering extended history and 24/7 recording, jumps to $20/month or $200/year, up from $15/month or $150/year—a 33% increase.
What Do You Get with Nest Aware?
Nest Aware is essential for unlocking the full functionality of Nest devices:
- Standard Plan:
- Event-based recording
- 30-day video history
- Nest Aware Plus:
- 60-day video history
- 24/7 continuous recording for the most recent 10 days
- Only compatible with certain camera models
Without a subscription, users are limited to three hours of video history—far too little for most real-world use cases.
Just One Subscription for All Devices
Despite the price hike, Google maintains a single subscription covers all cameras in one household. That can be cost-effective for multi-camera setups, but casual users may feel the pinch—especially those with only one or two devices.
Cloud Dependency and User Caution
The price increase highlights a broader issue: the risks of cloud dependency. Devices that rely on cloud services for basic functionality leave users vulnerable to unexpected cost increases.
- Google’s move serves as a reminder that hardware costs are only part of the equation.
- Customers should consider total cost of ownership, especially when it involves mandatory subscriptions.
Alternatives Without Mandatory Subscriptions
Some competing brands offer subscription-free or more flexible options:
- Netatmo Video Doorbell:
- Stores footage locally on microSD cards
- No monthly fees
- Eve Home Cameras:
- Use Apple HomeKit Secure Video
- Integrates with iCloud storage—starts at just $0.99/month
These alternatives may offer better long-term value and greater user control over data storage.
