AT&T Connected Life Brings Google Nest Security to Customers Nationwide

AT&T is jumping back into the home security business with a new service that keeps your cameras and sensors working even when the power goes out. The carrier has partnered with Google and security company Abode to launch AT&T Connected Life, a DIY home security system that runs on your home internet but switches to cellular backup during outages.

According to AT&T, the service is now available nationwide after testing in select markets. The system combines Google Nest cameras and doorbells with Abode's professional monitoring, all controlled through a single app. What sets it apart is the cellular backup feature—if your internet or power fails, the battery-powered hub automatically switches to AT&T's wireless network to keep alerts and monitoring active.

Customers can choose between two equipment packages. The Starter Kit costs $399 and includes a Nest Doorbell, security hub, two door/window sensors, and one motion sensor. The Advanced Kit runs $699 and adds more sensors, a Nest Cam, a keypad, and a key fob. Both kits can be paid in monthly installments through Affirm, with the Starter Kit at $11.08 per month and the Advanced Kit at $19.42 per month over 36 months.

On top of the equipment cost, you'll need a monthly service plan. The Essential plan is $10.99 per month and includes 30 days of video storage and smart alerts. The Professional plan costs $21.99 per month and adds 24/7 monitoring from Abode, which can dispatch police or emergency services if needed. Neither plan requires an annual contract, so you can switch or cancel month to month.

You'll need to be an AT&T customer to use Connected Life—either with wireless service or home internet. The good news is that AT&T has 119 million wireless customers and more than 10 million fiber internet customers, so many people already qualify. Setup is designed to be straightforward enough that you won't need a technician to install the equipment, though professional installation is available for an extra charge.

This isn't AT&T's first attempt at home security. The company shut down its Digital Life service in 2022 after the old 3G network it relied on was retired. This time around, AT&T is using partnerships rather than building everything from scratch. Google provides the hardware and smart home technology, Abode handles the monitoring, and AT&T supplies the connectivity and backup network.

The cellular backup feature could be valuable for areas prone to storms or power outages. Government data shows the average electricity customer experienced five to six hours of outages in 2022, mostly from weather-related events. While your cameras might not stream continuously during an outage due to limited bandwidth, the system can still send alerts and event clips through the cellular connection.

If you cancel your service, you keep the equipment and can still use it through the Connected Life app, but you'll lose access to features like video history, cellular backup, and professional monitoring. The system is available in most states, though AT&T notes it's not licensed in Illinois and New Jersey.

For AT&T customers already using Google Nest products or considering a home security system, Connected Life offers an option that doesn't require switching ecosystems or dealing with multiple apps. The combination of DIY setup, no long-term contracts, and built-in backup connectivity positions it as a flexible alternative to traditional security companies.