How To Charge Your Google Nest Hardware In Cold Weather

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Google Nest smart home devices, including its doorbells and security cameras, are rated for use in extreme temperatures as low as -4°F. However, it was recently revealed that the battery doesn't charge in these extreme temperatures, which means users will have to take extra steps to charge their hardware. That's a serious problem, as people depend on these smart home products for safety and security. The company's support team identified what solutions, if any, exist for customers to ensure their devices are charged and fully operational in cold climates.

The issue plaguing Nest doorbells and security cameras is essentially the same issue users commonly face when their phone drops to extreme temperatures. Both devices are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which are finicky consumable products that can be affected by a wide variety of environmental factors. Eventually, all lithium-ion batteries will fail and require replacement, but factors like operating temperature and charging frequency can shorten a battery's lifespan. That's why most hardware manufacturers shut off some or all features when a device reaches the low or high end of its temperature threshold. Generally speaking, the only way to avoid these hardware limitations is to allow the device, such as a phone or laptop, to reach room temperature naturally.

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Google Support clarified that while the minimum operating temperature is -4°F, there is a separate minimum charging temperature. The company says that in order for the lithium-ion battery in Nest products to charge, the devices must be above 32°F. That's freezing temperature, and many places around North America will experience