Nest Wifi: Google Wifi has a successor

Google’s annual event dedicated to hardware innovations was held, which saw Google Pixel 4 debut but also the new Google Pixel Buds, Pixelbook Go and the new Nest line devices such as Nest Mini and Nest Wifi.

The latter is the evolution of the previous Google Wifi launched in 2016 and aims once again to maximize Wi-Fi connectivity within the home, thus allowing a better signal quality to all devices.

The new Nest Wifi is actually composed of two separate devices. One is the router that must be connected to the home modem to allow Internet access, the other is the Wifi point which instead acts as both a Wi-Fi repeater and a smart speaker supporting Google Assistant.

According to Google, Nest Wifi, in addition to being faster than the previous version, is able to provide 25% higher coverage, allowing it to better cover the home surface. It will also be possible to add more Wifi points to further expand the coverage of the wireless network without having to buy the router.

The latter supports AC2200 MU-MIMO Wi-Fi connectivity with antennas configured with 4×4 (5 GHz) and 2×2 (2.4GHz) sets while supported Wi-Fi standards are up to 802.11ac. Wi-Fi 6 was not included as Google has thought of optimizing data traffic management algorithms rather than inserting other hardware (which increases consumption, complexity and cost). Point instead supports an AC1200 MU-MIMO 2×2 configuration for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.

For the management of Nest Wifi we rely on the Google Home app that already integrates support for all the home automation devices from the Mountain View manufacturer. The initial configuration was also made easier to allow even non-experts to install it correctly.

Also using the app it is also possible to check the problems when you are away from home or help relatives who are experiencing connectivity problems in their home (and correctly address the assistance service).

There is also the possibility to define usage rules, test the connection speed, share the Wi-Fi password with the guests or give priority to certain activities rather than others (for example: preferring a video call to another).

Google has also thought of making Nest Wifi aesthetically beautiful by creating it in three different colors like Snow, Sand and Mist. Inside is also the same speaker as the Nest Mini, and you can also play music together with other smart speakers. The plastic used was then made from up to 45% recycled material.

Nest Wifi initially arrived in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, France and Singapore. The price is equal to $349 for the set that includes router and two points, $169 for the router only, $149 for the single point and $99 for Google Wifi point.

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