In a significant move for its smart home lineup, Google has announced the discontinuation of two iconic products: the 2013 Nest Protect smart smoke and CO2 alarm and the 2018 Nest x Yale smart lock. These devices, which have been staples in homes for years, are being replaced by new offerings from trusted partners. This strategic shift highlights Google's commitment to expanding its ecosystem through collaboration while maintaining seamless integration with its platforms.

A New Chapter for Smart Home Safety and Security

Back in the autumn of 2013, Nest Labs introduced the groundbreaking Nest Protect, one of the first intelligent smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. After acquiring Nest shortly thereafter, Google kept the product alive with minimal changes over nearly a decade. However, times evolve, and so does technology. As of today, production of the Nest Protect has ceased, marking the end of an era. To fill this void, Google has partnered with First Alert to launch a successor—a similarly capable device that works harmoniously with existing Nest Protects and fully integrates into the Google Home app.

This new First Alert Smart Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm mirrors many features of its predecessor but comes at a slightly higher price point of $129. Meanwhile, the Nest x Yale Lock, another collaborative effort between Google and Yale, is also being phased out. Replacing it is the Yale Smart Lock with Matter, a modern alternative offering advanced functionality such as passcode management via the Google Home app and compatibility with multiple entry methods.

Key Details:

• First Alert Smart Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm launching soon in the U.S. and Canada.
• Yale Smart Lock with Matter expected later this summer in three stylish finishes.
• Both legacy products will continue receiving security updates until their individual expiration dates.

The Broader Implications of Google's Strategy

From a journalist's perspective, this transition underscores Google's evolving approach to hardware development. By partnering with established brands like First Alert and Yale, the company can focus on software innovation while leveraging third-party expertise in manufacturing. For consumers, this means access to cutting-edge technology without sacrificing compatibility or reliability. Ultimately, these moves demonstrate how collaboration can drive progress within the ever-expanding smart home industry, ensuring both convenience and safety remain priorities for users worldwide.