Default
Door staff@engadget.com (Roger Fingas) - 25 Oct 2026
The main effort to revive older Nest thermostats is a free, open-source project called No Longer Evil. By flashing your device with custom firmware, you can substitute some or all of the advanced functions that were disabled when Google disconnected you from the cloud. There's actually a No Longer Evil cloud platform, but you can also set up your own server, or connect to the Home Assistant ecosystem.
If any of this sounds intimidating, you might want to stay away. While there's an automated installer that guides you through the process, there's a non-zero risk of bricking your thermostat. If that happens, you won't be able to use it again in any capacity, even its "dumb" form. That could be dangerous if you have to go an extended period without a replacement in hot or freezing conditions.
If the weather is tolerable and you're prepared for an upgrade, it's good to take advantage of Google's free recycling program. You'll get a prepaid shipping label, which saves you the trouble of having to drive anywhere or spend anything. If you don't have access to a printer, however, you'll have to look up what local retailers and e-waste centers offer in your area and do things the hard way. Regardless, be sure to perform a factory reset by going to Settings > Reset > All Settings. You don't want any trace of personal data on something you're handing to a stranger.
If any of this sounds intimidating, you might want to stay away. While there's an automated installer that guides you through the process, there's a non-zero risk of bricking your thermostat. If that happens, you won't be able to use it again in any capacity, even its "dumb" form. That could be dangerous if you have to go an extended period without a replacement in hot or freezing conditions.
If the weather is tolerable and you're prepared for an upgrade, it's good to take advantage of Google's free recycling program. You'll get a prepaid shipping label, which saves you the trouble of having to drive anywhere or spend anything. If you don't have access to a printer, however, you'll have to look up what local retailers and e-waste centers offer in your area and do things the hard way. Regardless, be sure to perform a factory reset by going to Settings > Reset > All Settings. You don't want any trace of personal data on something you're handing to a stranger.