Can Google Home Hub Work as a Security Camera? Here’s the Answer

Many people wonder if they can use their Google Home Hub as a security camera. While the device has a screen and works with smart home security systems, it doesn’t have a built-in camera like other smart displays. 

However, you can still use it to monitor security cameras by connecting it to compatible devices like Nest or Ring. This means you can view live feeds and control security settings, but it won’t work as a camera itself. 

In this guide, we’ll explain what Google Home Hub can and can’t do when it comes to home security and monitoring.

Does Google Home Hub Have a Built-in Security Camera?

No, the Google Home Hub (now called Nest Hub) does not have a built-in camera. Unlike some other smart displays, it was designed without one for privacy reasons. This means you can’t use it to take pictures, make video calls, or record footage like a regular security camera.

However, there is another version called the Nest Hub Max, which does have a built-in camera. The Nest Hub Max can be used for video calls, facial recognition, and even security monitoring through Google’s Nest Aware service.

So, if you’re looking for a smart display with a camera, the Nest Hub Max is the better option. But if you already have a regular Google Home Hub, you can still connect it to other security cameras and use it as a monitor to view live video feeds.

How Google Home Hub Can Be Used for Security

Even though the Google Home Hub doesn’t have a built-in camera, it can still play an important role in your home security system. Instead of acting as a security camera itself, it functions as a smart display that helps you monitor and control other security devices.

View Live Camera Feeds

If you have security cameras like Nest Cam, Ring, Arlo, or Eufy, you can connect them to Google Home and view live footage on the Hub’s screen. Simply put. 

• “Hey Google, show me the backyard camera.”
• “Hey Google, show the front door.”

This lets you check your home in real time without needing to open an app on your phone. It’s especially useful for doorbell cameras, so you can see who’s at the door before answering. And this can help you prevent phrogging. 

Control Security Devices with Voice Commands

Google Home Hub can also control smart security devices using voice commands. If you have a smart lock, alarm system, or smart lights connected, you can say things like. 

• “Hey Google, lock the front door.”
• “Hey Google, arm the security system.”
• “Hey Google, turn on the porch lights.”

This hands-free control makes it easy to manage security without reaching for your phone.

Set Up Smart Home Automations for Security

One of the best features of Google Home Hub is its ability to automate security actions. You can set up routines so that certain actions happen automatically. For example:

• Lights turn on when motion is detected outside.
• Cameras start recording when your smart door lock is unlocked.
• An alert is sent to your phone if an unknown person is detected at the door.

These automations make your security system smarter and more responsive.

Get Alerts and Notifications

If your security cameras detect movement or a visitor at the door, Google Home Hub can send you alerts or show a notification on the screen. This is useful if you’re busy or away from home and want to know what’s happening in real time.

Two-Way Communication with Some Devices

While the Home Hub itself doesn’t have a microphone for video calls, it can work with cameras that support two-way audio. For example, if you have a Nest Doorbell, you can talk to visitors through the Hub’s speaker and hear their responses.

Limitations of Google Home Hub as a Security Camera

Here’s what you need to know before relying on it for home security.

No Built-in Camera

The biggest limitation is that Google Home Hub doesn’t have a camera. This means it can’t record video, take pictures, or detect motion like a regular security camera. If you need a Google smart display with a camera, the Nest Hub Max is a better choice.

Can’t Record or Store Video

Since there’s no camera, the Google Home Hub can’t record video or save footage. Even if you connect it to an external security camera, it will only show live feeds—it won’t store clips or let you rewind past recordings.

No Motion Detection

Security cameras use motion sensors to detect movement and send alerts. Google Home Hub doesn’t have motion detection, so it won’t notify you if someone is near your home. However, if you connect a smart security camera, it can send alerts through the camera’s app.

Limited Night Vision Support

Many security cameras have built-in night vision to capture clear footage in the dark. The Google Home Hub only displays what your security camera sees, so if your camera has weak night vision, you won’t get a clear view at night.

No Two-Way Audio for Security

Some security cameras let you talk to visitors through a built-in microphone and speaker. While the Nest Hub Max supports two-way audio, the standard Google Home Hub doesn’t have a camera or microphone, so you can’t communicate with someone through the device.

Final Thoughts 

The Google Home Hub is a great smart display. But it cannot work as a security camera since it does not have a built-in camera or the ability to record video. However, it can still be a useful security tool by displaying live feeds from compatible cameras like Nest Cam, Ring, or Arlo. It can also control smart locks, alarms, and lights through Google Assistant.

If you need a Google device with built-in security features, the Nest Hub Max is a better choice, as it includes a camera and motion detection. While Google Home Hub won’t replace a real security camera, it can still enhance your home security setup when paired with the right devices.

FAQs

Can Google Home Hub record video like a security camera?

No, the Google Home Hub does not have a built-in camera, so it cannot record video, take pictures, or detect motion like a security camera. It is mainly designed as a smart display for controlling smart home devices, watching videos, and using Google Assistant.

Can I view my security camera feed on Google Home Hub?

Yes, you can view live security camera feeds on your Google Home Hub, but only if your camera is compatible with Google Home. Cameras like Google Nest Cam, Arlo, Eufy, and some Ring models work with Google Assistant, allowing you to see live footage by saying, “Hey Google, show me the front door camera.”

Which security cameras work best with Google Home Hub?

Some of the best Google Home-compatible security cameras include Google Nest Cam, Arlo Pro 4, EufyCam 2C, Reolink Argus 3 Pro, and certain Ring cameras. These cameras allow you to view live feeds, get motion alerts, and control settings using Google Assistant.

Can Google Home Hub notify me of motion alerts?

No, the Google Home Hub itself does not have motion sensors or the ability to send security alerts. However, if you connect a security camera with motion detection, you can receive alerts through the Google Home app or the camera’s app when motion is detected. You can also set up Google Assistant routines to trigger lights or alarms when motion is detected.

How can I improve home security with Google Home Hub?

To enhance security, you can connect smart security devices like cameras, doorbells, locks, alarms, and motion sensors to Google Home. Setting up Google Assistant security routines can help automate tasks, such as locking doors at night, turning on lights when motion is detected, and activating security cameras when you leave home.

Why Doesn’t Google Home Hub Have a Camera?

Google intentionally left out a camera in the Nest Hub to address privacy concerns. Many users feel uncomfortable having a camera inside their homes, especially in personal spaces like bedrooms or kitchens. By removing the camera, Google ensures that the device is privacy-friendly while still offering smart home control and voice assistant features.