One cause I would take into account upgrading to the brand new fourth-generation Google Nest Studying Thermostat is its built-in Matter help. In observe, nonetheless, the Matter integration seems to be fairly lackluster. My favourite HomeKit bridge, the Starling Dwelling Hub, has simply launched a brand new firmware replace that deepens the brand new Nest’s integration with Matter.
Whereas the Nest Studying Thermostat (4th gen) does certainly help Matter, the performance you get is minimal. Certain, you’ll be able to change the thermostat mode and alter the temperature, however that’s about it. That is significantly irritating when you think about that the thermostat’s accompanying Nest Temperature Sensor, which helps handle temperatures in several rooms, doesn’t help Matter in any respect. Consequently, you’ll be able to’t even view the temperature in different rooms via Apple Dwelling.
Given these limitations, if fundamental management over your thermostat is all you’re after, you may be higher off with a easy $30 Wi-Fi thermostat. Spending ten instances as a lot on a Nest thermostat, solely to face these constraints when attempting to regulate it by way of Apple Dwelling, is sure to go away you pissed off.
Enter Starling Dwelling Hub:
That is the place the Starling Dwelling Hub comes into play. In contrast to the essential Matter integration, Starling Dwelling Hub affords full compatibility between your Nest Studying Thermostat (4th gen) and HomeKit, unlocking all of the options that Matter doesn’t help:
- Humidity Learn-Out: With Starling, you’ll be able to monitor the humidity ranges, supplying you with extra management over your property’s setting.
- Fan Management: Modify the fan settings immediately from Apple Dwelling, a function that’s absent in Matter.
- Temperature Sensors: Entry and handle all of your Nest Temperature Sensors from inside Apple Dwelling, making certain each room has the correct temperature.
- Energetic Preset and Temperature Sensor Choice: Seamlessly change between presets and choose which temperature sensor to prioritize, making your good house actually attentive to your wants.
Wrap up
Even in a world the place Matter is aiming to simplify good house integrations, Starling Dwelling Hub stays a important software for me with my Nest merchandise to have a whole HomeKit expertise. If you wish to profit from your new Nest Studying Thermostat inside HomeKit, the Starling Dwelling Hub continues to be vital. It bridges the hole left by Matter, making certain that every one your Nest options are totally accessible and practical.
It’s out there for a one-time charge immediately from the producer.
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