Suzanne Humphries
Google’s Nest Hubs make it easy to see what time it is or even check today’s weather at a glance. Now, Google will prominently display outdoor air quality information on Hub devices so you’ll have an idea of what to expect before you step outside.
Given that it’s currently wildfire season (and with other pollutants in the air), it’s not surprising to see Google place a heavier focus on air quality. Now, you can view air quality information on the Photo Frame or Ambient Screen of your Nest Hub or Nest Hub Max device, right next to the time and weather. When the air quality is “Unhealthy,” you’ll see the badge turn red and there will be an Air quality score and alert.
Introducing Air Quality on #NestHub and #NestHubMax
Select U.S. areas can:
⏰Add AQI in the clock/weather widget
📣Get alerts when air quality drops to an unhealthy level
📝See a list of nearby air quality stations at https://t.co/uZU5HxCha7Learn more at https://t.co/K62qfUOMzU pic.twitter.com/wrrwy6C8nD
— Made by Google (@madebygoogle) August 11, 2021
The data Google is sourcing for the feature comes directly from the Environmental Protection Agency’s US AQI system. Google will also let you find the nearest reporting station online via AirNow.gov.
In a recent blog post, Google said, “The EPA uses the US AQI to report air quality, which includes a number value from 0-500 and an easy-to-learn color scheme so you can quickly know if there are any concerns about the current air quality status. Higher values mean greater air pollution, and each color represents a general quality category: Good, Moderate, Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, Unhealthy, Very Unhealthy, and Hazardous.”
The air quality feature will roll out over the coming weeks. You’ll also be able to opt out of seeing the AQI badge or receiving air quality notifications at any time through the device’s settings. Google has yet to state whether or not the feature will be on third-party devices.
via 9to5Google
