Google has a new fourth-generation Nest Learning Thermostat on sale, but those who have already purchased the smart home device find that the display is sometimes a little too dark — something Google is apparently going to fix.
That's according to a report by 9to5Google, which mentions numerous complaints on Amazon that the Nest Thermostat's display is difficult to read due to its low brightness level, especially at night.
It seems that the device's default brightness setting when it detects it's in a dark room is lower than it actually should be, and that means that digits and symbols on the screen are difficult to make out.
Even during the day, the Nest Thermostat display may seem difficult to read due to low brightness levels or reflections on the screen. However, unlike previous Nest Thermostat models, the fourth-generation model does not offer display brightness controls.
The controls are coming
It's unclear why brightness controls weren't included on the new model, but the good news is that Google has told 9to5Google that they will be added at some point in the future, without being specific about a time frame.
Concerns about screen brightness have taken the shine off the launch of the new smart thermostat, which was leaked long before its official unveiling. The fourth-generation model is the first new Nest thermostat in four years.
With the new edition, you'll get a noticeably different, sleeker and more modern design. There's better climate integration here, as well as smarter scheduling for heating and cooling (which should save you money).
For now, the fourth-generation Google Nest Thermostat is only available in the US and Canada for $279.99 and $379.99 CAD respectively (about £215 or AU$415), because it has been optimised for heating systems in those countries. There's no word on international availability yet.
