Google Nest Cam Not Recording or Showing Offline in App

Problem Description

Your Google Nest Cam (Battery) is showing as offline in the Google Home app, not recording video, or failing to send notifications. The camera may have a blinking status light or show 'Camera Offline' in the app.

Common Causes

  • WiFi network connectivity issues
  • Camera battery depleted
  • Google Home app needs updating
  • Camera firmware update in progress
  • Account sync issues
  • Router security settings blocking the camera

Solutions

1. Check Battery Status

If your Nest Cam battery is low or depleted, it will go offline. Check the battery level in the Google Home app. Charge the camera using the included USB-C cable until the LED shows full charge (solid green).

2. Power Cycle the Camera

  1. If wired, unplug the power cable
  2. Wait 30 seconds
  3. Plug it back in
  4. Wait 2-3 minutes for the camera to reconnect

3. Check Your WiFi Connection

  • Ensure your WiFi network is working with other devices
  • Check if the camera is within range of your router
  • Nest Cam requires 2.4GHz or 5GHz WPA2 network
  • Test your internet speed - Nest Cam needs at least 2 Mbps upload

4. Restart Your Router

  1. Unplug your router and modem
  2. Wait 60 seconds
  3. Plug in the modem first, wait for it to fully start
  4. Plug in the router and wait for all lights to stabilize
  5. Check if the camera reconnects within 5 minutes

5. Remove and Re-add the Camera

  1. Open the Google Home app
  2. Find your camera and tap the settings gear
  3. Scroll down and tap Remove device
  4. Factory reset the camera by holding the reset button for 10 seconds
  5. Set up the camera again using Add device in Google Home

6. Check Google Home App and Firmware

  • Update the Google Home app to the latest version
  • Check for camera firmware updates in device settings
  • Sign out and back into your Google account in the app

7. Check Router Settings

  • Disable MAC address filtering or add the camera's MAC address
  • Ensure UPnP is enabled on your router
  • Check that ports 443 and 8883 are not blocked
  • Disable any VPN on your network that might interfere

When to Contact Support

Contact Google Nest support if the status light shows solid red, the camera won't complete setup after factory reset, or you hear clicking sounds from the camera.