Start here if you have a new Google Nest Doorbell, or if you removed it from the app and want to add it back.
You need the Google Home app or the Nest app to connect your doorbell to Wi-Fi and get recorded video. Use the in-app guide to help you through setup and installation.
What you need to get started
- Your Nest doorbell
- A Wi-Fi connection
- Latest version of the Google Home app or Nest app
- A compatible mobile device
- Android phone or tablet with Android 9.0 or later (Android 5.0 or later for Nest app setup)
- iPhone or iPad with iOS 16.1 or later.
- Your Bluetooth turned on
Step 1: Download or update the app you need
Depending on which Nest doorbell model you have, use either the Google Home app or Nest app to set it up. Download the one you need from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
For Nest Doorbell (wired), you need to use the Nest app.
Use the Google Home app to set up the following Nest doorbells:
- Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen)
- Nest Doorbell (wired, 2nd gen)
- Nest Doorbell (battery)
Step 2: Add your doorbell to the app with the QR code
Important: Your Nest doorbell’s QR code can be found on its back. To make sure you can easily access the code, connect your doorbell to the app before you install or mount it.
Depending on your doorbell model, you can add it to the Google Home app or Nest app:
- Open the Google Home app
.
- From the Home tab, tap Add
Device
Scan QR code
.
- Choose the home you want to add your doorbell to, or select Add another home to create a new one. Then, tap Next.
- The app will try to look for nearby devices. If prompted, select the Nest doorbell model that you have.
- Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code on the back of the doorbell.
- Or, you can also tap Continue without scanning and enter the numbers near the QR code.
Tip: If you don’t know where the setup code is, tap Find the code for help.
6. The app will help walk you through setup and installation.
If you're new to Nest
- Open the Nest app
and create an account.
- On the app home screen, tap Add
.
- Scan the QR code on the back of your doorbell.
- Or, you can also tap Continue without scanning and type the numbers at the top of the QR code.
- The app walks you through setup and installation.
If you already have an account
Important: If you have more than one home in your account, make sure to select the Nest home where you want to install your doorbell. Tap Menu to change homes.
- Open the Nest app
.
- Tap Settings
.
- Select Add product
.
- Scan the QR code at the back of your camera. You can also tap Continue without scanning and type the numbers at the top of the QR code.
- Follow the rest of the on-screen prompts.
Step 3: Install your doorbell
The app gives you basic installation instructions to mount or install your Nest doorbell. But if you need more tips for your doorbell, select your Nest doorbell model below for detailed instructions.
Get instructions for your Nest doorbell
| Nest Doorbell (wired, 3rd gen) | Nest Doorbell (wired, 2nd gen) |
| Nest Doorbell (battery) | Nest Doorbell (wired) |
Step 4: Learn how to use your doorbell
To help you get started with your doorbell, we selected the most important articles you should read in Get started with your Nest doorbell.
Troubleshoot issues during set up
During setup, the app lets you connect your doorbell to Wi-Fi, personalize settings, check the video quality, and more.
If you have any issues, here are some quick tips.
Important: The interactive troubleshooting tool is only recommended if you use the Nest app to set up your doorbell.
If a help message with the code appears in the app, get detailed troubleshooting help from our interactive troubleshooting tool for Nest cameras and doorbellTry these if you can’t find your Wi-Fi network or if your doorbell has trouble connecting to it:
- Wait a few minutes, then try to connect your doorbell again.
- If possible, move your doorbell and router closer to each other to improve the signal.
- Reduce wireless interference.
- Restart your router.
- If you have a hidden Wi-Fi network, you’ll need to type in the network name (SSID) manually in the app.
For more information, refer to Fix Nest camera or doorbell Wi-Fi connection issues.
Your doorbell doesn’t get enough power if:
- It won’t turn on
- You get a message or status in the app that tells you there isn’t enough power
- The Wi-Fi connection speed and the video quality are reduced
To fix the issue, check if the power is on for your home’s doorbell system. Make sure the wires are connected properly to your doorbell.
Some doorbell systems have complex wiring that might not have diagrams in the app. For additional help, you can contact Google Nest Help.If your doorbell has video delays or lag, it’s usually a sign that the Wi-Fi connection is weak. It could also be a sign that your doorbell doesn’t get enough power. Try the following to fix the issue:
- If possible, move your doorbell and router closer to each other to improve the signal.
- Reduce wireless interference.
- Check that the wires are connected properly to your doorbell.
If your doorbell’s video is distorted, here are a few things you can do to troubleshoot:
- Dust off the camera lens.
- Make sure your doorbell is shaded and protected from extreme weather conditions. While Nest doorbells are built to work outside of your home, extreme hot or cold temperatures can affect things like the video quality.