Google Retires Nest Protect and Nest x Yale Lock, Paves Way for New Smart Home Devices
Google is officially discontinuing two of its longest-running Nest products, signaling a significant shift in its smart home strategy. The Nest Protect smoke and carbon monoxide detector and the Nest x Yale smart lock—both well-established in the Google Home ecosystem—are being phased out, with Google exiting both the smoke alarm and smart lock markets.
Google Exits the Smoke Alarm and Smart Lock Business
Despite being staples of Google’s Nest lineup, the 10-year-old Nest Protect and 7-year-old Nest x Yale lock are no longer part of the company’s future plans. While both devices will continue to function and receive security updates, Google is stopping production and selling off remaining stock at discounted prices in the Google Store.
Both products had already shown signs of age:
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Nest Protect was one of the last devices to transition from the Nest app to the Google Home app, highlighting its outdated status.
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Nest x Yale users previously faced connectivity issues when Google removed Nest Hub Max as a bridge device, forcing Google to distribute free Nest Connect hubs to keep their locks functioning.
New Third-Party Devices Will Replace Nest Protect and Nest x Yale
Although Google is leaving these categories, it has partnered with trusted brands to introduce Google Home-compatible replacements.
1. First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm
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Manufactured by Resideo-owned First Alert, this model functions similarly to the Nest Protect.
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Features include mobile alerts, voice notifications, early warning “heads-up” messages, and the ability to trigger other connected alarms in an emergency.
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It’s Wi-Fi-enabled and works with Google Home, as well as existing Nest Protect alarms, making it an easy upgrade for current users.
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Available in battery-powered and hardwired versions, the SC5 will retail for $129.99 and launch in the coming months.
2. Yale Smart Lock with Matter
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Yale’s latest smart lock is designed for seamless integration with Google’s Nest ecosystem.
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Built with Thread and Matter support, it connects directly with Google Home, Alexa, and Apple Home, eliminating platform limitations.
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Offers multiple unlocking methods, including app control, entry codes, and physical keys.
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Boasts 12 months of battery life and compatibility with Thread border routers for better performance.
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The Yale Smart Lock with Matter is expected to launch this summer.
Time to Replace Older Nest Protect Units?
If you own a second-generation Nest Protect from its 2015 launch, it may be time to replace it, as carbon monoxide detectors typically have a 10-year lifespan. The First Alert SC5 provides a modern alternative with similar features.
While Google’s exit from these smart home categories may disappoint Nest fans, the arrival of reliable third-party replacements ensures that Google Home users still have fully supported options moving forward.