Adding another user to your Nest Doorbell is simple and secure. This guide walks you through sharing access via the Google Home or Nest app, setting permissions, and troubleshooting common issues.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Google Home or Nest app: Both apps allow you to invite users to access your Nest Doorbell, but Google Home is recommended for newer devices.
- Invite via email or phone number: You can send an invitation using the user’s Google account email or phone number linked to their Google profile.
- Set user permissions: Choose between “Viewer” (view only) or “Manager” (full control) to control what the new user can do.
- Ensure strong Wi-Fi and updated firmware: A stable connection and up-to-date software prevent setup issues.
- Accept invitations promptly: Invited users must accept the invite within 7 days or it expires.
- Troubleshoot access problems: Common fixes include checking account status, re-inviting, or restarting the app.
- Remove users anytime: You can revoke access instantly from the app if needed.
How to Add Another User to Nest Doorbell
So, you’ve installed your Nest Doorbell and it’s working perfectly—great job! But now, you want to share access with your partner, a family member, or maybe a trusted neighbor who watches your home while you’re away. The good news? Adding another user to your Nest Doorbell is quick, secure, and doesn’t require any technical know-how.
Whether you’re using the Google Home app (recommended for newer Nest devices) or the older Nest app, the process is straightforward. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step—from sending the invitation to managing permissions and troubleshooting common issues. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to give someone else access to your doorbell’s live feed, recordings, and alerts—without compromising your security.
Let’s get started!
Why Share Access to Your Nest Doorbell?
Visual guide about How to Add Another User to Nest Doorbell
Image source: m.media-amazon.com
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about why you might want to add another user. Sharing access isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety and peace of mind.
Imagine you’re on vacation, and a package is delivered. With shared access, your spouse or house sitter can see who’s at the door and even speak to them using the two-way audio feature. Or maybe you’re at work and want your teen to check if a friend has arrived. Instead of giving them your phone, you can grant them limited access to the doorbell feed.
Sharing access also helps in emergencies. If your doorbell detects motion or a person at odd hours, multiple people can receive alerts and respond quickly. This is especially useful for elderly family members or homes in busy neighborhoods.
Plus, you’re in control. You decide who gets access, what they can see, and when to remove them. It’s a smart way to keep your home secure while involving trusted people in your safety routine.
Prerequisites: What You Need Before Adding a User
Before you start the process, make sure you have the following:
- A Google Account: Both you and the person you’re inviting must have a Google account (like Gmail). This is required for authentication and secure access.
- The Google Home App (Recommended): If your Nest Doorbell was set up after 2020, it likely uses the Google Home ecosystem. Download the Google Home app from the App Store or Google Play if you haven’t already.
- Or the Nest App (Legacy Devices): Older Nest Doorbells may still use the Nest app. Check which app your device is connected to before proceeding.
- Stable Wi-Fi Connection: Your doorbell needs a strong internet connection to sync with the app and send notifications.
- Updated Firmware: Make sure your doorbell’s software is up to date. You can check this in the app under device settings.
- The Invitee’s Contact Info: You’ll need their email address or phone number linked to their Google account.
Once you’ve confirmed these, you’re ready to add a user.
Step-by-Step: Adding a User via the Google Home App
The Google Home app is the preferred method for managing newer Nest Doorbells (like the Nest Doorbell (battery) or Nest Doorbell (wired) released after 2021). Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Open the Google Home App
Launch the Google Home app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re signed in with the Google account that owns the doorbell.
If you don’t see your doorbell listed, tap the “+” icon in the top-left corner, select “Set up device,” and follow the prompts to add it.
Step 2: Select Your Doorbell
From the home screen, tap on your Nest Doorbell. This will open the device’s control panel, where you can view live footage, check battery status, and adjust settings.
Step 3: Go to Device Settings
Tap the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner to access the device settings menu.
Step 4: Tap “Users & Sharing”
Scroll down and look for the “Users & Sharing” option. Tap it to open the sharing settings.
Step 5: Invite a New User
Tap “Invite” or “Add user.” You’ll be prompted to enter the email address or phone number of the person you want to invite.
Tip: Use the email associated with their Google account (e.g., [email protected]). If they use a different email for Google services, make sure to use that one.
Step 6: Choose Permissions
After entering their contact info, you’ll choose their access level:
- Viewer: Can view live video, recordings, and receive alerts. Cannot change settings or delete footage.
- Manager: Can do everything a Viewer can, plus adjust settings, invite others, and remove users.
For most people, “Viewer” is the safest option. Only choose “Manager” if you fully trust the person and want them to have full control.
Step 7: Send the Invitation
Tap “Send Invite.” The person will receive an email or notification on their phone with a link to accept the invitation.
Step 8: Wait for Acceptance
The invited user must open the link and sign in with their Google account to accept. Once they do, they’ll appear in your “Users & Sharing” list.
Note: Invitations expire after 7 days. If they don’t accept in time, you’ll need to send a new one.
Step-by-Step: Adding a User via the Nest App (Legacy Devices)
If you’re using an older Nest Doorbell (like the original Nest Hello), it may still be managed through the Nest app. Here’s how to add a user there:
Step 1: Open the Nest App
Launch the Nest app on your device. Sign in with your Google or Nest account.
Step 2: Go to Settings
Tap the menu icon (☰) in the top-left corner, then select “Settings.”
Step 3: Select “Users”
Scroll down and tap “Users.” This will show a list of people who currently have access.
Step 4: Tap “Invite”
Tap the “Invite” button at the top of the screen.
Step 5: Enter the User’s Information
Type in the email address of the person you want to invite. Make sure it’s the one linked to their Google account.
Step 6: Choose Access Level
Select either “Viewer” or “Manager” based on how much control you want them to have.
Step 7: Send the Invite
Tap “Send Invite.” The user will receive an email with instructions to accept.
Step 8: Confirm Acceptance
Once they accept, they’ll appear in your user list and can access the doorbell through their own Nest app.
Managing User Permissions and Access
Once someone has access, you can manage their permissions or remove them at any time.
Changing Permissions
In the Google Home app:
- Go to your doorbell > Settings > Users & Sharing.
- Tap on the user’s name.
- Select a new permission level (Viewer or Manager).
- Tap “Save.”
In the Nest app:
- Go to Settings > Users.
- Tap the user’s name.
- Adjust their access level and save.
Removing a User
To revoke access:
- In Google Home: Go to Users & Sharing > tap the user > tap “Remove.”
- In Nest app: Go to Users > tap the user > tap “Remove User.”
Important: Removing a user immediately revokes their access. They won’t be able to view live feeds or recordings anymore.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with clear steps, things don’t always go smoothly. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
Issue 1: Invitation Not Received
Sometimes, the invite email ends up in the spam folder. Ask the user to check their spam or promotions tab.
If they still don’t see it, try resending the invitation. Also, double-check that you entered the correct email address.
Issue 2: “User Already Has Access” Error
This means the person is already linked to your doorbell—maybe through another home or device. Ask them to check their Google Home or Nest app to see if they’re already listed.
If they are, you can adjust their permissions instead of re-inviting.
Issue 3: Can’t See the Doorbell After Accepting
If the user accepts the invite but doesn’t see the doorbell:
- Ask them to restart the app.
- Ensure they’re signed in with the correct Google account.
- Check that your doorbell is online (green status light in the app).
Issue 4: Poor Video Quality or Delays
This isn’t directly related to adding users, but shared access can highlight performance issues. Make sure:
- Your Wi-Fi signal is strong near the doorbell.
- The doorbell’s firmware is updated.
- No other devices are hogging bandwidth.
Issue 5: Invitation Expired
If the 7-day window passes, simply send a new invite. There’s no penalty for re-inviting.
Best Practices for Sharing Access
To keep your home secure while sharing access, follow these tips:
- Only invite trusted people: This includes family, roommates, or trusted neighbors—not casual acquaintances.
- Use “Viewer” by default: Unless someone needs to change settings, stick with limited access.
- Review users regularly: Check your user list every few months and remove anyone who no longer needs access.
- Enable two-factor authentication: Protect your Google account with 2FA to prevent unauthorized access.
- Monitor activity: The app logs when users view footage. Check this if you suspect misuse.
Privacy and Security Considerations
Sharing access to your doorbell means sharing a live window into your home’s entrance. That’s why privacy and security matter.
Your recordings are stored securely in the cloud, but only people with access can view them. Google uses encryption to protect your data, but you should still be cautious about who you invite.
Avoid sharing access with people who don’t need it—like delivery drivers or short-term guests. If you do need temporary access, consider setting a reminder to remove them later.
Also, be aware that if someone with “Manager” access changes your settings (like motion zones or alerts), it could affect your security. That’s why it’s best to limit Manager permissions to people you fully trust.
Conclusion
Adding another user to your Nest Doorbell is a smart way to enhance your home’s security and convenience. Whether you’re using the Google Home app or the Nest app, the process is simple and takes just a few minutes.
By following this guide, you’ve learned how to:
- Invite users via email or phone number.
- Set appropriate permission levels.
- Troubleshoot common issues.
- Manage and remove access when needed.
Remember, you’re in control. You decide who sees your doorbell feed and what they can do with it. Use this feature wisely to keep your home safe and your family connected.
Now go ahead—share that access and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing someone else has your back.