Google Nest Cam Indoor Accessories

What Is Google Nest Cam Indoor?

The Google Nest Cam Indoor is one of Google's latest additions to its home security camera lineup. If you already have other Nest or Google Assistant devices in your home, it's definitely worth considering. Priced at $180, it falls somewhere in the middle range in terms of cost.

In terms of specifications, it offers midrange features that are standard for smart cameras. What sets this camera apart is the inclusion of free smart alert features, the ability to define activity zones, and on-device processing, thanks to a new machine learning chip from Google. This versatile camera is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, boasting an IP54 rating, which means it's weather-resistant, though not fully waterproof.

Main Features of Google Nest Cam Indoor

The Google Nest Cam Indoor boasts several standout features. Its sleek design and unique finish make it an attractive addition to any room. It has all the basics of a smart camera, including 1080p HD video for a clear picture, night vision, a 130-degree diagonal field of view, 6x digital zoom, and two-way audio. It integrates seamlessly with the Google Home ecosystem, enabling voice control and smart home automation. Its pricing is also relatively more reasonable compared to other Nest cameras. However, to unlock the camera's full functionality, you must be subscribed to Nest Aware. This subscription provides access to advanced features like more video history and intelligent alerts.

Easy Setup Process

Setting up your Google Nest Cam Indoor is a straightforward process that involves the following steps:

Unbox the Camera

When you open the box, you'll find the Nest Cam Indoor itself, along with any necessary accessories. This includes a magnetic base, a 1-meter charge cable, a power adapter, a wall plate, two wall anchors, two wall screws, and a quick-start guide.

Connect to Wi-Fi Network

Before proceeding with the installation process, it is essential to confirm that your network and setup meet these requirements:

1. Ensure that your router is broadcasting a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. If your router combines both 2.4 and 5 GHz networks under one SSID, it is advisable to separate them into distinct entities. Alternatively, you can temporarily disable the 5 GHz option while setting up your camera.

2. Verify that your Wi-Fi security encryption is properly configured with the WPA/WPA2-PSK protocol for enhanced security.

3. Prior to setting up the camera, disable any VPN and Ad Guard services on your mobile device to prevent any interference with the setup process.

4. Initially, position the camera in close proximity to your router and then relocate it to the desired installation location once the setup is complete.

5. Make sure to disable your mobile data connection and confirm that your mobile device is connected to the same 2.4 GHz network, as Nest cams are compatible with both 2.4 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks in the United States. Note that a 2.4 GHz network typically offers a wider coverage area, which can be beneficial for outdoor models.

6. Additionally, enable your device's location services and Bluetooth functionality. Grant the necessary Location access permission, as it is crucial for discovering devices on your network.

Download the Google Home App and Set Up Account

1. Download the Google Home App. Download the Google Home app to your smartphone or tablet from your device's app store.

2. Set Up an Account: Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to create or sign in to your Nest account. This account will be used to manage and access your camera.

3. Add Your Camera:

   3.1. In the app, select "Add" or "Set up a device."

   3.2. Choose "Camera."

   3.3. Scan the QR code on the bottom of your camera. This helps the app identify your specific camera model.

   3.4. Follow the prompts to connect the camera to your Wi-Fi network. You'll need to enter your network's SSID and password.

Mount the Nest Camera and Adjust the Angles

Mounting your camera is essential for optimal coverage. Here's how to do it:

1. Choose a Location: Select a location for your camera that provides a clear view of the area you want to monitor. Ensure it's secure and stable.

2. Mark Drilling Points: If necessary, mark the drilling points on the wall or ceiling where you intend to mount the camera.

3. Install Mounting Bracket: Attach the included mounting bracket securely to the wall or ceiling using the provided hardware. Alternatively, you can use the Wasserstein Magnetic Wall Mount for Google Nest Cam for a no-drill installation. It has a strong, secure magnet that provides a sturdy mounting base for your Nest cam and attaches to most metal surfaces.

4. Mount the Camera: Place your Nest Cam Indoor onto the mounting bracket and secure it in place.

5. Adjust Camera Angles: Make any necessary adjustments to the camera angles to ensure it covers the desired area effectively. Ensure it's level and captures the right perspective.

Finalize Camera Setup

1. Configure Smart Devices: If you have other smart devices, such as smart speakers or displays, you can integrate them with your camera for enhanced functionality. This can be done in the Google Home app.

2. Test the Camera: After setup, make sure to test your camera to ensure it's functioning correctly. Open the app and check the live stream from your camera to confirm it's capturing the intended view.

Tips for Everyday Use of Google Nest Cam Indoor

Whether you're new to using a home security camera or looking for ways to enhance its functionality, these tips will provide insights on how to optimize security, monitor your indoor spaces efficiently, and make the most of the camera's features. From improving video quality to managing alerts and accessing recorded footage, these tips will empower you to utilize your Nest Cam Indoor to its fullest potential for a safer and more connected everyday experience.

Enhance Security With Digital Zoom & Night Vision

You can zoom in and out of your camera's video temporarily to get a closer look at specific parts of the scene. This won't affect the footage uploaded to the Nest service, and it won't change what other people see when they access your camera in the app. Your camera will continue to stream its entire wide-angle view, and this full view will also appear in recorded and saved videos.

Here's how to zoom in and out in the Home app:

1. Open the Home app.

2. Tap on your device's tile.

3. In your camera's Live or History view, you can use two fingers to spread or pinch for zooming in or out. You can also double-tap to zoom in, and double-tap again for a closer view. To navigate, simply drag one finger to pan around.

Stream Video and View Footage on Mobile Device or PC

If you're a subscriber to Nest Aware, your Nest camera's video history is automatically stored in the cloud. You can access and view this event video history on your phone, tablet, or computer.

To view the video history on a computer, follow these steps:

1. Sign in to your account at home.nest.com.

2. Select a camera that has a Nest Aware subscription.

Please note that the ability to watch video history on a computer is limited to older cameras or doorbells that were initially set up using the Nest app.

When you view your camera's event history on a computer, you'll notice a timeline at the bottom of the camera feed. This timeline serves two primary functions:

1. It indicates when events occurred in your video history, such as instances of motion or sound captured by the camera.

2. It allows you to swiftly navigate through your recorded video history. You can click on a specific part of the timeline to jump directly to the associated events and start playback from that point.

Record Videos with HD-quality

The Nest Cam Indoor records videos in 1080p at 30fps, ensuring high-definition quality. The video quality settings help you decide how much of your internet connection your Google Nest cam uses for streaming live video. When you choose higher quality, it uses more bandwidth.

No matter which setting you select, both your camera and the app will automatically change the video quality to match your internet speed. When you select a video quality setting, you're essentially choosing the level of quality for both the live video stream and the quality at which the video is recorded and saved.

It's important to note that once the video is saved at a specific quality, you won't be able to view it at a higher quality later on. After you adjust the quality and bandwidth settings, your camera will take a moment to restart and switch to the new video quality. During this process, there might be a brief gap in your video history.

Receive Mobile Alerts and Notifications with Motion Detection

Setting up mobile alerts, push notifications, and sound alerts for motion detection on your Google Nest Cam Indoor is straightforward. The camera can recognize familiar faces, animals, vehicles, and general motion, as well as a smoke alarm and a CO2 alarm. You have the flexibility to choose which types of notifications you want to receive, keeping you informed about the events that matter most to you.

Replay Recorded Videos from Event History

To replay recorded videos from the event history of Google Nest Cam Indoor, follow these steps:

1. Access Your Camera's Video History:

   • Open the Nest app on your mobile device.

2. Select Your Camera:

   • From the home screen of the Nest app, choose your specific camera.

3. View Video History:

   • Your camera's video history will be displayed below the live video feed.

4. Switch Between Different Views:

   • In the video history section, you can switch between two different views: the video history timeline and the event history.

   • The video history timeline shows an activity track marked with events your camera has detected.

   • The event history provides a list of specific events your camera has captured.

5. Review Recorded Video:

   • When your camera detects sound or motion, the following appears in the video history timeline:

     • A dot or bar on the activity track highlights when the activity was detected.

     • A snapshot of what your camera captured at the beginning of the activity is displayed.

6. Navigate to Recorded Events:

   • To watch a recorded event, simply tap on any dot, bar, or snapshot in the timeline. This action will take you to the beginning of the recorded event, allowing you to review the captured footage.

Access Digital Video Footage Anytime, Anywhere with Cloud Storage

For any time, anywhere access to digital video footage, consider using cloud storage solutions. Keep in mind that the default storage options have limitations, so a Nest Aware subscription is recommended for extended storage and access to advanced features. Different subscription options are available, each with its own benefits, such as familiar face detection, longer video history, and smart alerts, tailored to your specific home security needs.

Frequently Asked Questions