Why Is My Nest Camera Not Recording Continuously?
One of the most powerful features of the Nest camera ecosystem is the ability to have a 24/7, continuous video history. This allows you to scroll back through your timeline and see everything, not just the moments when motion or sound was detected. However, if you've noticed that your camera is only saving clips or has gaps in its timeline, it's likely due to your subscription plan or connectivity issues.
This guide will explain the requirements for continuous video recording (CVR) and help you troubleshoot why your Nest camera might not be recording 24/7.
Understanding Nest Aware Subscriptions
The most common reason for a lack of continuous recording is the type of Nest Aware subscription you have. Google offers two main tiers, and only one includes 24/7 video history.
- Nest Aware (Basic): This subscription provides you with event video history. Your camera will only record and save clips when it detects important activity, such as a person, a sound, or motion. You will not have a 24/7 timeline to scrub through.
- Nest Aware Plus: This is the premium subscription tier. It includes everything in the basic plan, plus 10 days of 24/7 video history for all your Nest cameras.
### How to Check Your Subscription
- Open the Google Home app or Nest app.
- Go to Settings.
- Select Nest Aware.
- Here, you will be able to see your current subscription plan. If it simply says "Nest Aware," you have the event-based plan. To get 24/7 recording, you will need to upgrade to Nest Aware Plus.
Troubleshooting Gaps in 24/7 Video History
If you have confirmed that you have an active Nest Aware Plus subscription but are still experiencing issues, the problem is most likely related to your camera's power or internet connection.
### The Importance of a Stable Connection
To record and upload a continuous video stream, your Nest camera needs a constant and stable connection to your Wi-Fi network.
- Intermittent Wi-Fi: If your camera's Wi-Fi connection drops, even for a few moments, it will create a gap in your video timeline. The camera cannot save footage to the cloud when it is offline.
- Checking Your Connection: In your camera's settings within the app, find the Technical Info or Device Information section. Check the signal strength (often shown as a percentage or dBm). A weak signal can lead to frequent disconnections.
- Improving Your Signal: If the signal is weak, try moving your Wi-Fi router closer to the camera. If that's not possible, a Wi-Fi extender or a mesh network system can provide a more reliable connection to cameras that are far from the router.
### Consistent Power is Crucial
Continuous video recording requires your camera to be constantly powered.
- Power Outages: Even a brief power cut will interrupt the recording and create a gap in your history.
- Loose Cables: Ensure the power cable is securely connected to both the camera and the power outlet. A loose connection can cause the camera to intermittently lose power.
- Battery Cameras: It's important to note that battery-powered Nest Cams cannot record 24/7 video history, even with a Nest Aware Plus subscription. This is to conserve battery life. They will only wake up and record when an event is detected. To get 24/7 recording, you need a wired (plugged-in) Nest camera.
Final Checks
- Is 24/7 History Enabled? After subscribing to Nest Aware Plus, you may need to manually enable 24/7 recording for each camera. Go to your camera's settings, find the Video section, and ensure that Video History is turned on and set to 24/7.
- Restart Your Camera: If you've confirmed your subscription and connection are solid, try restarting your camera. Unplug it from power for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. This can often resolve temporary software glitches.
By ensuring you have the correct Nest Aware Plus subscription and a stable power and internet supply, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a complete 24/7 video record.