From game-changing text diffusion models and cutting-edge AR glasses to AI videos with sound and virtual clothing try-ons, there was plenty of amazing tech to see during Google's I/O keynote on Tuesday. The closest we got to a smart home shout-out was when a Google exec said that Gemini--the star of the show--is "coming to your watch, your car dashboard, even your TV." As Google puts its Google TV Streamer under the umbrella of smart home, we'll count that as a fleeting reference. Officially, Google has promised that Gemini is coming to Nest devices. Gemini on Nest speakers has been available on a public-preview basis for months now, and back in March, Google confirmed that a "new experience powered by Gemini" is coming to smart speakers and displays.

Google has announced that it will no longer be bringing new Nest Thermostats to Europe due to the "unique" requirements of heating systems in the region. The company launched its redesigned fourth-generation Nest Learning Thermostat in 2024. "Heating systems in Europe are unique and have a variety of hardware and software requirements that make it challenging to build for the diverse set of homes," Google says. The third-generation Nest Learning Thermostat and the Nest Thermostat E will continue to function, receive security updates and be sold while supplies last. If you're in the market for a new thermostat that works with Google Home, though, you'll have to turn to a third-party option.

Google just announced that it will soon drop support for the first- and second-generation Nest Learning Thermostats. The devices won't stop working completely, but remote access is going away, as are software updates and compatibility with the Google Home app. The older Nest Learning Thermostats that are losing support include the second-generation units for the U.S., released in 2014, as well as the European version of the second-gen thermostat, which also went on sale in 2014. The original Nest Learning Thermostat, which was released only in the U.S., landed in 2011. Google says it will drop support for the thermostats starting October 25, 2025. Besides no longer receiving software updates, the older Nest Leaning thermostats will lose Nest and Google Home app support, meaning no more out-of-home control.

Folks who are just getting started with smart home products or who are already invested in the Google Nest ecosystem may be interested in taking a peek at some solid deals on several of the company's products. Using our Wellbots discount codes, you'll be able to save on items such as the Google Nest Learning Thermostat. Enter the code 55ENGDT at checkout and you can get an extra $55 off the device. That means you'll be able to snap up the Learning Thermostat for $144, since the discount stacks with a Wellbots sale. As such, you can save $105 overall.

If you've ever used an iPod, the Nest Thermostat will be familiar to you--in fact, it was designed by Tony Fadell, the designer of the original iPod hardware. Changing the temperature is as simple as rotating the thermostat's dial. You can use the app to set a traditional time-of-day schedule--far simpler than most non-smart thermostats--or let the Nest learn your daily habits and adjust the temperature automatically. This feature is great for those who don't want to put in any effort, but might be a bit too confusing for people who like to fine-tune their schedules, so you can turn it off if you wish. Like many other smart thermostats, the Nest can save you energy by adjusting the temperature when you aren't home, as determined by your phone's location and the Nest's built-in motion sensors, and it's also compatible with the energy-saving plans and rebates offered by many utility companies.

The Nest Thermostat uses two AAA alkaline batteries to help power it, and they are included in your purchase. Here are the Nest Thermostat's basic specs: The new Nest Thermostat is a stripped-down and more affordable version of our favorite smart thermostat, Nest's Learning Thermostat. The latest model comes with mounting hardware but does not include a trim kit as the Nest Learning Thermostat does (though it can be purchased separately). It's also not smart enough to learn temperature preferences and habits over time, and instead of a built-in rechargeable battery like the Learning Thermostat has, the Nest Thermostat uses two AAA alkaline batteries. The Nest Thermostat does include many comparable features to the Nest Learning Thermostat like Eco Mode, Home/Away Assist, and scheduling features to help you save on energy costs, adding up to good value for the money.

We purchased a wide assortment of things, including an Aerogarden, a 4K monitor, an air purifier and Nintendo's Ring Fit Adventure. But the ones that proved the most memorable sometimes went unmentioned on our site. Here, a few of our staffers look back on at least one item that made it to their "best of 2020" list that deserve a shout-out before the year is over. I simply don't have space in my apartment for a proper home office. So ever since March my kitchen table has also served as a writing desk.

Nest changed the thermostat market forever when it introduced the Nest Learning Thermostat nearly a decade ago. The third generation of that product, introduced in 2015, is still one of the best smart thermostats you can buy, but many people recoil from its $249 price tag. The Nest Thermostat E, introduced in 2017, is pretty great, too, but it costs $169 and is still out of reach for some. Today, Nest announces an even more affordable device: the Nest Thermostat. Nest says its Energy Star-rated Nest Thermostat will suggest temperature presets via the Google Home app for when you're home, when you're away, and when you're sleeping, balancing comfort with energy savings.

While heating and cooling setups can vary a lot, most US homes rely on some sort of heating, ventilating and air conditioning system (HVAC) to help keep indoor temperatures in check. Your thermostat acts as the main point of access for this system, allowing you to determine when and at what temperature air is circulated. The thing is, today's thermostats are quite different than the typical models sold in stores just 10 years ago. That's where this buying guide comes in handy. We'll explore the changing thermostat market, so you can decide which model makes the most sense for your home.

Smart thermostats do more than automate a fixed heating and cooling schedule. These app-enabled smart home devices make it possible to adjust your thermostat whether you're on the couch, at the grocery store or on vacation -- anywhere your smartphone is connected to a cellular or a Wi-Fi network. Many of these devices also work with Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri now too, giving you yet another way to adjust your thermostat settings without having to stand directly in front of it. Some smart thermostat systems also use smart features like a motion sensor to determine if you're home or away and automatically change the temperature -- both heating and cooling -- for you. Other systems rely on a geofencing radius -- once you get a certain distance from your home, they switch to away mode and then back to home mode when you return.