In March, Google officially ceased production of the Nest Protect connected smoke detector. Existing units will continue to operate, but since these smoke detectors have a lifespan of 10 years starting from their manufacture date, many older units are beginning to expire. In response, Google is now promoting an alternative product.
The Google Store has begun listing the First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm. This new smoke detector is compatible with the Google Home app and adheres to the Google ecosystem. It can easily integrate into setups that include existing Nest Protect devices.
Specifically designed to connect to the Nest Protect’s base plate, transitioning from expired units to the First Alert model is expected to be a straightforward process. Users can manage the SC5 through the Google Home app or First Alert’s own application. Moreover, the SC5 has the ability to connect with other alarms, including Nest Protect, as well as select First Alert and BBK alarms.
This feature ensures that when one alarm detects smoke or carbon dioxide, all connected alarms will activate simultaneously. The detector is available in both hardwired and battery-powered options. Interestingly, although the SC5 is featured on the Google Store, Google is not actually selling it.
Instead, the store directs customers to First Alert’s official website, where the detector is available for purchase. Both the hardwired and battery-operated models are priced at $129.99, matching the original price of the Nest Protect when it launched in 2013. The SC5 can also be found at other retailers like Amazon and Best Buy, although these are not linked through the Google Store listing.
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