Don’t Think You Need Google Nest? We Bet These Features Will Convert You
The global smart home market is expected to reach $53.45 billion by 2022, and it’s estimated that about 53% of Americans own at least one smart home device. According to a recent industry report, the exponential growth is driven by various factors, including “the increasing number of internet users, the growing adoption of smart devices, and the rising disposable incomes of people in developing economies.” Additionally, concerns about peace of mind, and convenience will continue to boost the concept of smart homes.
No matter what the reason, there’s no denying how saturated the smart home market has become. From do-it-yourself devices to professionally monitored video equipment, homeowners and apartment renters alike have dozens of brand and product options to choose from. While that may seem like a good thing, it can often lead to choice paralysis, especially if you don’t understand exactly what you’re looking for to begin with.
With OneStep, we specialize in helping people decide what type of smart home device is right for their family’s unique needs, and one brand we always recommend is Google Nest. Contrary to what you might think, Google Nest isn’t a singular solution. Rather, it’s a family of connected devices that work together to create a fully integrated smart home experience. Google Nest has an array of product options that all have a unique purpose. From safety and security to thermostat controls and live entertainment, let’s check ‘em out:
1) Peace of Mind
It’s estimated that a home invasion and/or burglary occurs every 30 seconds in the United States, and the average financial loss from a burglary is $2,661. Although it’s true that the rate of property crime has thankfully decreased in recent years, many homeowners still rely on indoor and outdoor video cameras to enhance their peace of mind. Google Nest offers a variety of smart home products that act as your eyes and ears, 24/7 – even when you’re away at work or on vacation. One ultra-popular option is the Nest x Yale Lock, which features a tamper-proof, key-free deadbolt that can be remotely controlled with an app. Another great option is the Nest Secure Alarm System, which can detect motion and send security alerts to your smartphone in real time.
2) Speakers
When people hear “smart home,” many automatically think of cameras, and maybe climate control. However, smart homes are also about entertainment and hands-free help. Enter: smart speakers, one of the easiest ways to upgrade your home. Smart speakers can be installed anywhere, and you can use your voice to ask them to play your favorite podcast or stream music for a spontaneous kitchen dance party. On a more practical note, smart speakers can also set timers and read aloud that week’s weather forecast. Google Nest’s suite of smart speakers come with the Google Assistant already built in, so you can have help wherever and whenever you need it. And if you choose to put multiple smart speakers in different rooms, they can all connect with each other. Just say “hey, Google” and you’re good to go.
3) Displays
In the same “entertainment” category as speakers are displays, which also come in a wide variety of product offerings. Unlike a traditional technology screen, smart displays combine the hands-free voice assistance of smart speakers with a user-friendly touchscreen so you can watch videos, scroll through social media, browse the internet, listen to a music playlist, and read a recipe all from one convenient device. While smart speakers communicate primarily via sound, smart displays communicate via three senses – sound, sight, and touch. The Google Nest family of smart displays include the Nest Hub (2nd gen) and the Nest Hub Max, both of which allow you to stay entertained with music, shows, and videos. Not to mention, you can control all of your devices from one central space.
4) Thermostats
Home is where the heart is. It’s also where your thermostat is always set to your most comfortable temperature. But beyond comfort, smart thermostats are also incredibly energy efficient and can save your family money in the long run. In fact, Google Nest thermostats can save an average of 10% to 12% on heating bills and 15% on cooling bills. With a smart thermostat, you can control the temperature of your home from anywhere, so if you forget to turn down your heat before a long weekend away, you simply have to open your app and re-set the temperature. Some smart thermostats like the Nest Learning Thermostat even learn your family’s temperature preferences and set up an energy-saving schedule automatically.
5) Connectivity
A smart home is a connected home, it’s that simple. But if you don’t have fast and reliable internet coverage throughout your home, your smart devices won’t do what they’re supposed to do. It’s important to note that Wi-Fi and internet are two different things, even though they’re often used interchangeably. In a typical home network, Wi-Fi actually bridges the internet to wireless devices; think of it as an alternative to old-fashioned ethernet cables. Although internet speed has progressively increased in the last decade, if your Wi-Fi device isn’t working properly, you won’t be able to access the world wide web. That’s why smart home brands like Google Nest are looking to upgrade the Wi-Fi experience with connected solutions that offer reliable whole home coverage, along with tech-savvy features like built-in smart speakers.
6) Streaming
If you’ve been paying attention to the TV industry over the past few years, you’re probably familiar with the term, “cut the cord.” As cheaper entertainment options have become more mainstream, families are turning away from traditional cable box TV to adopt a streaming service, such as Google TV. With Google TV, you can browse content from across different apps like Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and Amazon Prime, and even watch live TV with just a click of a button or tap of an app. The #1 Google Nest streaming solution is Chromecast, which allows you to stream content from your device (like a computer, for instance) to your TV. If you want to upgrade to Chromecast with Google TV, you can watch all your favorite shows and movies in up to 4K HDR, PLUS control your remote with your voice.
A Smart Home Is What You Make It; Google Nest Can Make It Great
“Smart home” means something different to everyone. For some families, simply having a smart speaker is enough. For others, the device lineup isn’t complete without 24/7 self-video monitoring, a thermostat with automated climate control, plus a smart TV that can stream every movie that was nominated for a 2021 Academy Award. At OneStep, we know that different people have different needs, especially when it comes to smart home technology systems. That’s why we offer free consultations to help you decide which device – or devices – to buy. And if you choose to purchase directly from our website, installation is included! We have a variety of smart home products in stock – including all the Google Nest goodies. If you have any questions or want to get started, contact us today: 877-346-2279.
