Google Nest thermostat smart features disabled

Google has announced the discontinuation of cloud-based support for first and second-generation Google Nest Learning Thermostats, affecting devices purchased between 2011-2014. While the thermostats will continue basic operation, all smart features and remote capabilities will be permanently disabled.

Nest Labs launched the Nest Learning Thermostat in 2011, introducing smart thermostats to the mainstream market. The company was acquired by Google in 2014 for $3.2 billion. First and second-generation Nest thermostats were marketed as premium one-time purchases with cloud-based functionality as core features, including smartphone control, voice assistant integration, and home automation capabilities.

On April 25, 2025, Google officially announced that support would end for the following devices on October 25, 2025:^[1][2]

• Nest Learning Thermostat (1st generation, 2011)
• Nest Learning Thermostat (2nd generation, 2012)
• Nest Learning Thermostat (2nd generation, Europe version, 2014)

After October 25, 2025, affected devices will lose:^[1][2]

• Remote control via Nest and Google Home apps
• Google Assistant and third-party voice assistant integration
• Home/Away Assist functionality
• Push notifications
• Software and security updates
• All cloud-based features and connected services

The discontinuation affects the Emergency Shutoff feature, which automatically shuts off heating systems when Nest Protect smoke detectors sense carbon monoxide.^[3] Google has confirmed that "Nest Protects will also disconnect from the thermostat and Emergency Shut-off will no longer run."^[2]

Google states that basic thermostat functions accessible directly on the device will continue to work, including:^[2]

• Pre-set temperature schedules
• Manual temperature adjustments
• Mode switching (heat/cool)
• Auto-Schedule settings management

The discontinuation removes core features that were primary selling points when consumers purchased these devices. Users who built smart home systems around these thermostats face the loss of functionality they paid for, with no option for local control or open-source alternatives. The removal of the carbon monoxide safety shutoff feature presents particular concern for consumer safety.

Google cited the age of the hardware as the primary reason, stating it had become "increasingly challenging to continue to update these products."^[1] The company offered limited-time discounts to affected customers:

• United States: $130 off 4th generation Nest Learning Thermostat
• Canada: $160 off 4th generation model
• Europe: 50% off Tado Smart Thermostat X Starter Kit^[1]

No options were provided for continuing use through open-source integrations, local control, or third-party services.

The announcement generated significant criticism from consumers and technology commentators. Carl T. Bergstrom summarized the sentiment: "We're Google, and we're going to brick your perfectly functional thermostat after buying the company that made it."^[4][5]

As of October 2025, the discontinuation happened. Affected consumers are advised to:

• Document current device functionality and integrations
• Ensure alternative carbon monoxide safety measures are in place before the cutoff date
• Save all communications from Google/Nest regarding the discontinuation
• Consider filing complaints with consumer protection agencies if appropriate
• A community driven open source project has been created.^[6] This gives owners the ability to flash a custom firmware on to the Gen 1 and 2 devices. Currently a free account is required as the firmware redirects the devices to the projects own servers. A full release of the API code is planned to allow users to create their own servers. This process, of course, carries the risk of bricking the device during the flashing process. This initiative has been covered in an article on Toms Hardware Guide^[7]