This guide walks you through how to add users using Nest Doorbell so family or trusted friends can view live feeds, receive alerts, and manage settings. You’ll learn step-by-step instructions, permission levels, and troubleshooting tips to ensure smooth access sharing.
Key Takeaways
- Share access easily: Add family members or roommates to your Nest Doorbell so they can see who’s at the door from their phones.
- Control permissions: Choose between “Viewer” and “Manager” roles to limit what others can do with your device.
- Use the Google Home or Nest app: Both apps support user management, but the process differs slightly—this guide covers both.
- Require a Google Account: Only users with a valid Google Account can be added to your Nest Doorbell.
- Stay secure: Always verify new users and remove access when no longer needed to protect your privacy.
- Troubleshoot common issues: If someone can’t join, check Wi-Fi, app updates, or re-invite them.
- Works with multiple devices: Adding a user grants access to all compatible Nest devices under your account.
How to Add Users Using Nest Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve got your Nest Doorbell installed and working perfectly—great job! But now you’re wondering, “How do I let my partner, roommate, or family member see who’s ringing the bell when I’m not home?” That’s where adding users comes in.
Whether you have a Nest Doorbell (wired or battery), Nest Hello, or any other model in the Nest doorbell lineup, sharing access is simple—but it’s important to do it right. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to add users using Nest Doorbell with clear, easy-to-follow steps. You’ll learn how to invite others, set their permissions, manage access, and even troubleshoot common problems.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to confidently share your doorbell with trusted people while keeping your home secure. Let’s get started!
Why Add Users to Your Nest Doorbell?
Visual guide about How to Add Users Using Nest Doorbell
Image source: m.media-amazon.com
Before diving into the steps, let’s talk about why adding users is a smart move. Your Nest Doorbell isn’t just for you—it’s a shared security tool for your household. Here are a few reasons to share access:
- Peace of mind: If you’re at work and your teen is home alone, they can see who’s at the door without opening it.
- Package protection: Roommates can check for deliveries and bring in packages before they’re stolen.
- Emergency alerts: If someone rings the bell late at night, multiple people can respond quickly.
- Shared responsibility: Everyone in the household can help monitor activity and keep the home safe.
Adding users doesn’t mean giving up control. You decide who sees what and what they can do. That’s why understanding permission levels is key.
Understanding User Permissions: Viewer vs. Manager
When you add someone to your Nest Doorbell, you assign them a role: Viewer or Manager. These roles determine what they can and can’t do.
Viewer Permissions
A Viewer can:
- See live video feeds from the doorbell.
- View past event recordings (if you have a Nest Aware subscription).
- Receive motion and person alerts.
- Talk through the doorbell (if it has a speaker).
But a Viewer cannot:
- Change doorbell settings (like motion zones or alert schedules).
- Add or remove other users.
- Delete recordings or manage subscriptions.
This role is perfect for kids, roommates, or family members who just need to see who’s at the door.
Manager Permissions
A Manager can do everything a Viewer can, plus:
- Adjust doorbell settings (motion sensitivity, alert types, etc.).
- Add or remove other users.
- Manage Nest Aware subscriptions.
- Delete recordings and manage storage.
Managers have full control, so only assign this role to people you fully trust—like your spouse or a live-in caregiver.
Prerequisites: What You Need Before Adding Users
Before you start inviting people, make sure you have the following:
- A Google Account: You must be signed in to the Google Home or Nest app with your Google Account.
- The latest app version: Update the Google Home or Nest app on your phone (iOS or Android).
- Stable Wi-Fi: Your doorbell should be connected and working properly.
- The email address of the person you’re adding: They must have a Google Account with that email.
If the person you want to add doesn’t have a Google Account, they’ll need to create one first. It’s free and takes just a few minutes at accounts.google.com.
How to Add Users Using the Google Home App
The Google Home app is the most common way to manage Nest devices, including doorbells. Here’s how to add users using the Google Home app:
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.
Step 2: Select Your Doorbell
On the home screen, tap on your Nest Doorbell. It should show a live preview or the last recorded event.
Step 3: Go to Device Settings
Tap the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner to open the device settings.
Step 4: Tap “Users & Sharing”
Scroll down and look for the “Users & Sharing” option. Tap it to see a list of current users.
Step 5: Invite a New User
Tap the “+ Add person” button. You’ll be prompted to enter the email address of the person you want to invite.
Step 6: Choose Their Role
After entering the email, select whether they should be a Viewer or Manager. Use the descriptions above to decide.
Step 7: Send the Invitation
Tap “Send” or “Invite.” The person will receive an email and a notification in their Google Home app (if installed).
Step 8: Accept the Invitation
The invited user must open the email or app notification and tap “Accept” to join. Once accepted, they’ll see your doorbell in their app.
Step 9: Confirm Access
Go back to “Users & Sharing” in your app to confirm they’ve been added. You’ll see their name, email, and role listed.
How to Add Users Using the Nest App
If you’re still using the older Nest app (common with older Nest devices), the process is slightly different. Here’s how to add users using the Nest app:
Step 1: Open the Nest App
Launch the Nest app on your device. Sign in with your Google Account.
Step 2: Go to Settings
Tap the menu icon (☰) in the top-left corner, then select “Settings.”
Step 3: Select “Users”
Tap “Users” to see a list of people who already have access.
Step 4: Invite a New User
Tap the “+” or “Invite” button. Enter the email address of the person you want to add.
Step 5: Set Permissions
Choose whether they’re a “Viewer” or “Manager.” The options work the same as in the Google Home app.
Step 6: Send the Invitation
Tap “Send Invitation.” The person will get an email with a link to accept.
Step 7: Accept on Their End
They must open the email, sign in with their Google Account, and accept the invitation.
Step 8: Verify in the App
Once accepted, their name will appear in your “Users” list in the Nest app.
Managing Existing Users
Adding users is just the beginning. You’ll also need to manage them over time. Here’s how:
Changing a User’s Role
If you want to upgrade a Viewer to a Manager (or vice versa):
- In the Google Home app: Go to “Users & Sharing” > tap the user > change their role > save.
- In the Nest app: Go to “Users” > tap the user > change permission level > save.
Removing a User
If someone moves out or you no longer trust them with access:
- In the Google Home app: Go to “Users & Sharing” > tap the user > “Remove access” > confirm.
- In the Nest app: Go to “Users” > tap the user > “Remove” > confirm.
Removing a user immediately revokes their access. They won’t be able to see live feeds or recordings anymore.
Viewing User Activity (Nest Aware Only)
If you have a Nest Aware subscription, you can see who viewed recordings or interacted with the doorbell. This is helpful for monitoring usage.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, adding users doesn’t go as smoothly as planned. Here are common problems and how to fix them:
“User Didn’t Receive the Invitation”
- Check the email address for typos.
- Ask the user to check their spam or promotions folder.
- Resend the invitation from your app.
- Ensure the user has a Google Account with that email.
“Invitation Says ‘Pending’ Forever”
This means the user hasn’t accepted the invite.
- Remind them to check their email and app notifications.
- Ask them to open the Google Home or Nest app and look for a banner at the top.
- If they still don’t see it, try removing and re-inviting them.
“User Can’t See the Doorbell”
- Make sure they’ve accepted the invitation.
- Check that your doorbell is online (green light or solid status in the app).
- Restart the app on their phone.
- Ensure they’re signed in with the correct Google Account.
“I Can’t Add More Users”
Google limits the number of users per home. You can usually add up to 10 people. If you’ve hit the limit:
- Remove inactive users.
- Upgrade to a Nest Aware Plus plan for more features (though user limits remain similar).
“App Crashes When Adding Users”
- Update the Google Home or Nest app.
- Restart your phone.
- Clear the app cache (Android) or reinstall the app (iOS).
Best Practices for Sharing Your Nest Doorbell
To keep your home secure and avoid confusion, follow these tips:
- Only add people you trust: Remember, Managers can change settings and remove others.
- Use strong passwords: Ensure all users have secure Google Accounts.
- Review access regularly: Every few months, check who has access and remove those who no longer need it.
- Educate new users: Show them how to use the app, respond to alerts, and respect privacy.
- Enable two-factor authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your Google Account.
Can You Add Users Without a Google Account?
No. Unfortunately, you cannot add users to your Nest Doorbell without a Google Account. Google requires all users to sign in with their own Google Account for security and tracking purposes.
If someone doesn’t have one, they’ll need to create a free account at accounts.google.com. It only takes a few minutes and gives them access to other Google services like Gmail, Photos, and Drive.
Does Adding Users Affect Your Subscription?
Adding users does not change your Nest Aware subscription cost. Whether you have one user or ten, you pay the same monthly or yearly fee. However, all users can view recordings and events if you have a subscription—no extra charges.
Just remember: only the account owner (you) can manage the subscription. Viewers and Managers can’t upgrade, downgrade, or cancel it.
What Happens If You Move or Sell Your Home?
If you’re moving out or selling your house, it’s important to remove all users and reset your doorbell:
- Remove all users from “Users & Sharing” or “Users.”
- Factory reset the doorbell (in settings > “Remove device” or “Reset”).
- Uninstall the doorbell or leave it for the new owner (they’ll need to set it up themselves).
This ensures your personal data and access aren’t left behind.
Final Thoughts: Sharing Access the Right Way
Adding users to your Nest Doorbell is a simple but powerful way to keep your home secure and connected. Whether you’re letting your teenager check for friends or giving your partner full control, the process is quick and secure when done correctly.
By following this guide, you now know how to add users using Nest Doorbell through both the Google Home and Nest apps. You understand the difference between Viewer and Manager roles, how to troubleshoot issues, and how to manage access over time.
Remember: sharing access doesn’t mean losing control. With the right settings and regular check-ins, your Nest Doorbell can be a shared tool that benefits everyone in your household—without compromising your privacy or security.
So go ahead—invite that family member, roommate, or trusted neighbor. Let them see who’s at the door, so you can all feel a little safer, a little smarter, and a lot more connected.