Google appears to be preparing to release the fourth-generation Nest Learning Thermostat. It was first leaked last weekAnd now the same leaker has posted more X documentation The new model is expected to feature a customisable home screen, a new “Dynamic Farsight” feature and a “borderless” display.
The leaked images detail a “high-resolution borderless display” that would likely extend the Nest Learning Thermostat’s UI into the area that’s usually occupied by black bezels on existing Gen 3 units. Other leaked images also show UI elements appearing much closer to the display bezels.
Dynamic Farsight is mentioned, but the leak doesn’t indicate how the new feature will work. Farsight on existing Nest models activates the unit when the user approaches and can display information like weather, time, room temperature, etc. Hopefully the mention of Dynamic Farsight means the 4th Gen will be able to display a variety of information, rather than being limited to certain options.
Google’s leaked documents also mention “natural heating and cooling” and a customizable home screen for the fourth-generation Nest Learning Thermostat. It’s not clear how natural heating and cooling will work, or to what extent the new home screen will be customizable.
The fourth-generation Nest Learning Thermostat comes with an oval trim plate in the box, along with the usual thermostat base, a steel plate on the back, and the second-generation Nest temperature sensor. Whereas Google only provided very basic integration of the third-generation Nest Learning Thermostat into the Google Home app, this new model has a full UI within the app, allowing you to change all settings and control schedules without having to switch to the Nest app.
There’s no mention of any hardware upgrades beyond the display change, but hopefully Google has made some major improvements under the hood after nearly a decade. The third-generation learning thermostats are notorious for issues with the Wi-Fi chip, which can cause the unit to fail and require replacement. I’ve had to replace my Nest learning thermostat twice because of Wi-Fi issues.
The leaker suggests that this new 4th generation model will be priced at $279, making it the most expensive Nest thermostat yet. The new Nest temperature sensors are said to be priced at $39 each, or $99 for a set of three. An official release date and price may be announced at the “Made by Google” event. Hardware Event on August 13th.
