Nest Camera Audio Not Working? A Step-by-Step Fix Guide
The two-way talk and audio recording features are integral to your Nest camera's functionality. Whether you want to listen in on a room, speak to a delivery person, or capture important sounds on a recording, it's essential that the audio works perfectly. If you've suddenly lost sound, the cause is likely a simple setting or permission that has been overlooked.
This guide will walk you through the most common solutions to get the audio on your Nest camera working again.
## 1. Check App Permissions on Your Phone
This is the most frequent reason for audio problems. The Google Home or Nest app requires your permission to use your phone's microphone to capture and play sound.
- For iOS (iPhone/iPad): Go to Settings, scroll down and tap on the Home or Nest app. Ensure the toggle for Microphone is switched on (green).
- For Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Home (or Nest) > Permissions. Tap on Microphone and make sure it is set to Allow.
After changing this setting, completely close the app and reopen it to test the audio.
## 2. Verify In-App Camera Settings
There are master controls for audio within the app itself. It's possible the microphone or audio recording has been disabled.
- Open the App: Launch the Google Home or Nest app and select your camera.
- Go to Settings: Tap the Settings cog icon.
- Find Audio Settings: Look for the Audio section.
- Check the Toggles: Inside, you will find toggles for "Audio recording" and "Microphone". Ensure both of these are turned on. If either is disabled, the camera will not stream or record sound.
## 3. Check Your Phone's Volume and Connections
Let's not forget the basics. The issue could be with your phone's own sound output.
- Media Volume: While you have the camera's live stream open, press the physical volume-up button on your phone to make sure the media volume is not muted.
- Silent Mode: Ensure your phone is not in a "Silent" or "Do Not Disturb" mode.
- Bluetooth: Disconnect any active Bluetooth connections (headphones, speakers, cars). Your phone may be trying to route the audio to the connected device instead of its own speaker.
## 4. Reboot Your Nest Camera and Router
A classic "turn it off and on again" can resolve many unexplained software glitches.
- Restart the Camera: Unplug your Nest camera from its power source. Wait for 30 seconds before plugging it back in. Allow a few minutes for it to fully boot up and reconnect.
- Restart Your Router: An unstable Wi-Fi connection can cause audio to drop out. Unplugging your internet router for 60 seconds and then plugging it back in can improve connection stability.
By methodically checking these four areas—app permissions, in-app settings, phone volume, and device power—you can solve nearly all common audio issues with your Nest camera and get back to hearing what matters.