Google and Samsung Nest Together
Starting in January, Google Nest devices will be “Works With SmartThings” certified, meaning that SmartThings users will able to use and automate Nest thermostats, cameras, and doorbells in the SmartThings app alongside other smart home devices like smart lighting or motion sensors. This also means that some of Samsung’s appliances – like its Smart Fridge – will be able to control Nest devices and Samsung TVs will be able to stream video feeds from Nest Cams.
The NPD Take:
- Given that Samsung has basically exited the hardware business for smart home and is focused on developing the SmartThings ecosystem, this is a nice win for them to bring one of the major hardware brands into its fold. Google, in fact, had been one of the more notable exceptions to brands supported by SmartThings. Samsung claims to have more than 63 million active users – a nice big audience for Google to now have access to.
Logitech Makes a Doorbell for the HomeKit User
Logitech’s Circle View Wired Doorbell features HomeKit Secure Video, as well as 160-degree field of view and HD video. With HomeKit Secure Video, of course, owners can store footage (with Apple’s end-to-end encryption) in iCloud for 10 days – not counting against any iCloud storage limits. The doorbell camera also features face recognition and custom activity zones. It currently appears to be an Apple online store exclusive, available for $200.
The NPD Take:
- This is one of few HomeKit supported doorbells, and the only consumer-focused one that supports Secure Video. For consumers who have bought into the HomeKit ecosystem and HomeKit Secure Video (and haven’t bought a Ring doorbell), surely this will be a welcome addition. Being able to seamlessly view footage and speak back and forth with visitors through an iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV doesn’t hurt either.