[Updated] Google 'Nest Aware' subscription price increase prompts cancellation, here are some alternatives

New updates are being added at the bottom of this story…….

Original story (published on September 05, 2023) follows:

Here’s the crux of the article in video form:

Google has recently announced an increase in the subscription price for its ‘Nest Aware’ service, forcing many users to cancel it.

Notably, the prices for both Nest Aware and Nest Aware Plus memberships will be hiked, with the standard and Plus subscriptions costing $8 and $15 per month, respectively.

Also, the new prices will be effective on the user’s bills that occur on or after November 6, 2023.

However, by looking at the reports (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10), it seems that people are not pleased with the substantial price hike in subscription plans. And as a result, they have now decided to terminate their memberships completely.

They claim to have received emails from the company notifying them about the change. Google contends that, despite the increase, subscribers will retain their existing plan benefits.

However, people are unhappy as they have to pay increased prices even when there are no added features or improvements to justify the hike.

Those who have 1st-generation Nest cameras feel outraged as they will have to pay 60% more to continue with their existing plans.

Users are also disheartened, as the company had earlier migrated the ‘full video recording’ feature to ‘Nest Aware Plus’ just to increase their profits.

And now, they have hiked the subscription prices even for the latest cameras with the same motive.

Alright guys, with the new price increase. I am officially out. Looking for good modern suggestions.
Source

A customer claims to have not only canceled their Nest Aware subscriptions but also decided to part ways with their Nest hardware altogether.

In addition to the price change, people are also unhappy with Google’s plan to discontinue support for Nest Secure. Some are even regretting their decision to purchase a Nest Secure System setup.

Just got an email, Nest services going from $22-$24 a month. Price gouging!
Source

Understandably, those impacted have taken to web forums to voice their discontent and look for alternatives to the services.

It’s also worth noting that pricing adjustments will not affect you if you’ve canceled your membership or if you receive Nest Aware via Google’s partner, ADT.

We have compiled a list of alternative services with similar features and functionalities that are worth trying.

1. UniFi System
2. Reolink
3. Wyze
4. SimpliSafe
5. Eufy
6. Hikvision NVR

Also, if you do not wish to invest again in expensive hardware or services, you can try setting up a standalone POE system.

Having said that, we’ll keep tabs on this topic and update you as and when something noteworthy comes up.

01:00 pm (IST): You should also note that frustrated and annoyed subscribers have started a petition on Change.org to stop Google from bricking Nest Secure and its Sensors. At the time of writing this update, the petition had already received a total of 409 signatures.

Also, many believe that Google should be legally compelled to reverse its decision since it disrupts the functionality of millions of security equipment used worldwide. They feel that Google should have adopted a more thoughtful approach, such as allowing existing customers to retain their gadgets while discontinuing new sales. They view the discontinuation of support as unethical and unlawful.

Note: There are more such stories in our dedicated Google section, so be sure to follow them as well.

Featured image source: Google Nest.

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