Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Gen: Price, Release, and Features

Google has announced a new Nest thermostat, and you probably won’t be shocked to discover that, like seemingly every new tech device, its intelligent functions are powered by AI: in this case, Google’s own Gemini.

The new thermostat model has been a long time coming. The simple and beautifully designed 3rd generation thermostat was launched back in 2015. But in the intervening time, similar design-focused, easy-to-use models from brands like Ecobee in the US and Hive in the UK have gained traction.

What does the 4th generation model do that sets it apart from its rivals? We have all the information you need, including price, release date and features.

When will the Nest Learning Thermostat 4th generation be launched?

In the US, the 4th generation is now available for pre-order through Google’s official store, as well as Amazon, US and Canada.

It continues on sale 20th of August.

No UK launch date has been announced yet, although we expect it to come sometime, hopefully this year.

How much does the Nest Learning Thermostat 4th generation cost?

It’s available for $279.99 in the US and $379.99 in Canada.

Again, no UK price has been confirmed.

What specifications and features does the Nest Learning Thermostat 4th generation have?

Design

The thermostat itself has been completely redesigned. The 2.7-inch screen is 60% larger than the previous model and the bezel is hidden behind layers of mirrors and colored films for a seamless finish.

Apparently it was inspired by the design of the Pixel Watch, which according to Wired was inspired by the design of the Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd generation, suggesting there may be a lot of group hugging going on in Google’s design department.

You can still interact with it in the same way as the 3rd generation model, by turning the dial to change the target temperature and pressing for more information.

It is available in three colors: polished silver, polished gold and polished obsidian. That’s less than the 3rd generation, although you’re unlikely to be disappointed with the options on offer.

The main viewing feature is what Google calls Dynamic Farsight. Thanks to the Soli radar sensor in the thermostat, which is a very efficient motion detector, it can detect when someone is nearby and will update its screen accordingly.

When no one is around, a clock face will appear. Then, as someone approaches, an animation of the weather outside appears, along with the inside temperature.

Sustainability is literally built into the device: not only will its AI features help save energy where possible (more on this later), but it also uses 100% recycled cobalt in the battery, which Google says is a world first.

A third of the device’s total materials are recycled, the packaging is fully recyclable, and Google promises the device will last a long time.

Smart functions

But it’s the new smart features that should sell it. It quickly learns your habits and then, through the Smart Schedule feature, suggests changes to your heating and cooling schedule to save energy and keep you comfortable.

Users receive notifications of suggestions and can choose whether to accept them – or they can let the thermostat make changes automatically. The outside weather is also taken into account when heating or cooling your home, for maximum efficiency.

In ‘Adaptive Eco’ mode, it goes into energy saving mode when you’re away. This is similar to Tado’s “geofencing” feature, which uses your smartphone’s GPS to determine your location. But the Nest 4th generation doesn’t have to rely on this alone, as it has the added benefit of the motion-sensing Soli sensor in the thermostat.

If you come home unexpectedly while it’s in energy saving mode, it aims to return your home to the ideal temperature within an hour of arriving.

Sensors

One of the problems with any smart thermostat is that it bases its heating and cooling decisions on the temperature of the room in which it is installed.

The Nest 4th generation comes with an all-new, pebble-like Nest temperature sensor, which you can place elsewhere in your home. The thermostat can then use both measurements to make decisions and prevent certain rooms, such as a baby’s room, from staying too cold.

But you don’t have to be limited to two rooms. You can buy an additional sensor for $39.99 (or three for $99.99) to place around your home.

If you have an existing Nest thermostat and want to use this feature, there’s good news: the sensors also work with older Nest thermostats.

Compatibility

Google says this is the most compatible thermostat ever, designed to work with complex home heating and cooling systems: heat pumps, humidifiers, dehumidifiers and ventilation systems. If you have the latter, the Nest 4th generation monitors the outdoor air quality and automatically interrupts ventilation in poor conditions.

It’s also Matter compatible, so if you want to build your smart home system around the new standard, this is an option to consider.

The Nest Learning Thermostat 4th generation promises a lot. We’ll find out if it yields results when we review it. In the meantime, check out our top recommendations for the best smart thermostats we tested.

The thermostat is not the only new announcement from Google. Read more about its new TV streamer, which could rival Apple’s 4K TV.