Is The Google Nest Hub Max Still Relevant In 2025 Or Outdated By Newer Displays

When the Google Nest Hub Max launched in 2019, it represented a bold step forward in the smart display ecosystem—offering a 10-inch touchscreen, built-in camera for video calls, facial recognition, and robust integration with Google Assistant. Now, as we move into 2025, consumers are asking: does this once-cutting-edge device still hold up against newer models like the Lenovo Smart Display M10, Amazon Echo Show 15, or even Google’s own second-gen Nest Hub? Or has it become obsolete through neglect, aging hardware, and shifting smart home priorities?

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Relevance depends on use case, expectations, and how much you value Google’s ecosystem. While the Nest Hub Max lacks recent hardware updates and some modern features, it continues to deliver solid performance for core functions—especially in homes already invested in Google’s ecosystem.

Hardware: Aging but Still Functional

The Nest Hub Max is powered by a MediaTek MT8167 processor, paired with 4GB of RAM and 16GB of storage. In 2025, these specs are modest by today’s standards. Newer smart displays often feature faster chips, higher-resolution screens, and better audio components. However, for the primary tasks—controlling smart home devices, viewing recipes, checking calendars, or watching YouTube—the original hardware remains responsive under normal conditions.

The 10.1-inch HD (1280x800) display, while not full HD, still delivers clear visuals. It’s bright enough for kitchen counters or nightstands, though it lacks the vibrancy and contrast of OLED panels found in premium models. The dual front-facing speakers provide surprisingly rich sound for a device of its size, outperforming many competitors in audio clarity—particularly for music streaming or podcast playback.

One standout hardware feature is the 6.5mm pop-up camera, which enables video calling via Google Duo (now Meet). In an era where privacy is paramount, the physical shutter offers peace of mind when the camera isn’t in use. This design choice remains more user-friendly than software-only disable options found on many rivals.

Tip: If you frequently use video calls or motion-based commands like \"Hey Google, show me the front door,\" the camera functionality keeps the Nest Hub Max uniquely useful despite its age.

Software & Ecosystem: Where It Still Shines

Google continues to provide regular software updates for the Nest Hub Max, including security patches, Google Assistant improvements, and interface refinements. As of early 2025, it runs the latest version of the Ambient OS (formerly Google TV for smart displays), ensuring compatibility with current smart home standards such as Matter and Thread.

This ongoing support is critical. Many discontinued smart displays lose functionality over time—broken integrations, outdated interfaces, or unpatched vulnerabilities. The Nest Hub Max avoids that fate, maintaining smooth interoperability with thousands of smart devices from brands like Philips Hue, Nest, Ecobee, and August.

“Even older hardware can remain valuable if supported by a cohesive ecosystem. Google’s commitment to long-term software updates gives legacy devices extended lifespans.” — David Lin, IoT Analyst at TechHome Insights

Its deep integration with Google services—Calendar, Photos, YouTube Music, Maps, and Gmail—remains unmatched. For example, saying “Hey Google, show my photos from last summer” instantly pulls curated albums from Google Photos. No other platform offers this level of contextual awareness and personalization.

Comparison: Nest Hub Max vs. 2025 Alternatives

To assess relevance, it’s essential to compare the Nest Hub Max directly with current-generation alternatives. The table below highlights key differences across major categories.

Feature	Google Nest Hub Max (2019)	Nest Hub (2nd Gen, 2021)	Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen)	Lenovo Smart Clock 2
Screen Size & Type	10.1\" LCD	7\" LCD	8\" HD LCD	4\" OLED
Camera	Yes (pop-up, 6.5MP)	No	Yes (13MP, rotating)	No
Audio Quality	Strong dual speakers	Average	Good bass, stereo sound	Basic
Matter/Thread Support	Yes (via update)	Yes	Limited	No
Facial Recognition	Yes (personalized info)	No	No	No
Current Price (Refurbished)	$129–$159	$99 new	$129 new	$79 new
Active Software Updates	Yes	Yes	Yes	Limited

The data shows that while the Nest Hub Max may lack modern screen tech or ultra-slim design, it retains unique advantages—especially the camera and personalized experience via facial recognition. These features were quietly discontinued in later Google models due to privacy concerns, making the Hub Max the only Google display offering them.

Real-World Use Case: The Smith Family Kitchen

The Smiths installed their Nest Hub Max in 2020 as a central command center for their growing smart home. By 2025, they still rely on it daily. Each morning, the device greets them by name (thanks to facial recognition), displays weather, commute times, and calendar events. When their daughter arrives home from school, she says, “Hey Google, start my homework playlist,” and YouTube Music begins playing instrumental study tracks.

They use the camera weekly for video calls with grandparents and occasionally check the live feed from their Nest Doorbell. Despite newer models being available, they’ve seen no compelling reason to upgrade. The device responds quickly, integrates seamlessly with their 18 connected devices, and requires zero troubleshooting.

“It just works,” says Mark Smith. “We expected it to slow down or get dropped from updates by now, but Google’s kept it running smoothly. Replacing it would mean reconfiguring everything—and for what? A slightly better screen?”

This scenario reflects a broader trend: users who prioritize reliability and ecosystem cohesion over novelty often find older, well-supported devices more practical than flashy newcomers.

Limitations and Considerations

Despite its strengths, the Nest Hub Max isn’t without drawbacks. The most significant is its age-related obsolescence in certain areas:

• No Sleep Sensing (Radar): Unlike the 2nd-gen Nest Hub, it lacks Soli radar for contactless sleep tracking—a feature increasingly popular among health-conscious users.
• Outdated Design: The thick bezels and plastic build feel dated next to sleeker, minimalist alternatives.
• App Ecosystem Gaps: Third-party app support on smart displays remains limited. Services like Zoom or TikTok are either unavailable or poorly optimized.
• Privacy Concerns: Though the camera has a physical switch, some users remain wary of always-listening devices with cameras, regardless of safeguards.

Additionally, Google has shifted focus toward smaller, lower-cost models. Marketing and innovation energy is now directed at the Nest Hub (2nd gen) and voice-first devices like the Nest Audio. The Hub Max receives updates but no new features, suggesting it’s in maintenance mode rather than active development.

Step-by-Step: Evaluating Whether to Keep or Replace Your Nest Hub Max

If you’re deciding whether your Nest Hub Max still meets your needs, follow this evaluation process:

1. Assess Core Usage: List how you currently use the device (e.g., recipe viewing, alarms, video calls). Are these functions still reliable?
2. Check Performance: Does it lag when launching apps or responding to voice commands? Occasional delays may indicate hardware strain.
3. Review Ecosystem Fit: Are you deeply integrated with Google services? Switching to Alexa or Apple may disrupt workflows.
4. Evaluate New Features: Do you want sleep tracking, Zigbee hub functionality, or larger screens? These aren’t available on the Hub Max.
5. Compare Costs: A new Echo Show 15 costs $250. Is the added functionality worth nearly double the price of a refurbished Hub Max?
6. Test Alternatives: Try a newer model in-store or through a return-friendly retailer to compare usability.

This structured approach prevents emotional decisions and focuses on tangible benefits.

Checklist: Is Your Nest Hub Max Still Right for You?

• ✅ I use Google Photos, Calendar, and YouTube regularly
• ✅ I make video calls and appreciate the pop-up camera
• ✅ My smart home uses Matter-compatible Google devices
• ✅ The device responds quickly to voice commands
• ✅ I don’t need sleep tracking or advanced health features
• ✅ I prefer a larger screen over compact designs
• ✅ It receives regular software updates (verify in Settings > System)

If you checked most of these, the Nest Hub Max likely still serves you well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Google discontinue support for the Nest Hub Max?

As of 2025, Google has not announced any end-of-life plans. The device continues to receive quarterly security updates and feature parity with newer models in core functions. Given Google’s history of supporting hardware for 5+ years, it’s expected to remain functional through at least 2026.

Can the Nest Hub Max work as a smart home hub?

Yes. It supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread (added via software update), allowing it to control Matter-compatible devices. It can act as a central hub for automations, routines, and remote access—even when you're away from home.

Is the facial recognition feature secure?

Google states that facial data is processed locally on the device and not stored in the cloud. You can disable the feature entirely in settings. While no system is 100% foolproof, the local processing model reduces privacy risks compared to cloud-dependent alternatives.

Conclusion: A Legacy Device with Lasting Value

The Google Nest Hub Max is not the most advanced smart display in 2025. It doesn’t have the sleekest design, the brightest screen, or the newest wellness features. But relevance isn’t solely determined by innovation—it’s also about reliability, integration, and real-world utility.

For users embedded in Google’s ecosystem, those who value video calling, personalized experiences, and a large, responsive display, the Nest Hub Max remains a powerful tool. Its continued software support ensures security and compatibility, while its unique camera and audio capabilities differentiate it from newer, more limited models.

Technology doesn’t expire on a calendar date. Devices become outdated when they stop working—not when they stop being hyped. By that measure, the Nest Hub Max is far from obsolete. It’s a mature, stable product that quietly excels at what it was designed to do.

🚀 Still using your Nest Hub Max? Share your experience—what keeps it valuable in your home? Leave a comment and help others decide whether to hold on or upgrade.