After Nest, Google 'considering' Dropcam buy: Here’s why it could be the right move

As the game of acquisitions continues, the newest buzz is around Google acquiring Dropcam through Nest, and make its entry into home security.   According to The Information, Google is considering to buy the connected camera startup Dropcam. However, it isn’t clear at what stage the talks are at right now and whether they are progressing, adds the report.   Dropcam is best known for its cloud-connected security camera that saves the footage to a cloud service, allowing users to check the recording anytime, anywhere, on compatible devices. Last year, the startup raised $30 million. It is also known to have improved video analysis technology with the Dropcam Pro device, and improved the field of view and software which alerts users on movements. [caption id=“attachment_208493” align=“alignnone” width=“622”]  Nest holds great potential for Google[/caption]   Google’s move is eventually about diving deeper into home security, along with its Nest purchase. The search giant **bought Nest** for $3.2 billion, earlier this year. Google had said that Nest will continue to operate independently, under the leadership of its founder, Tony Fadell, also an ex-Apple employee and popularly known as “Father of the iPod”. The same independence could be given to Dropcam as well, but eventually Google’s plan would be to bring all of these devices under one fold, preferably with Android at its heart.   Google had earlier explained Nest’s mission as one to “reinvent unloved but important devices in the home”, and perhaps Dropcam has attracted its attention for the very same reason. Needless to say, with Dropcam in its kitty, Google can expand further into home security and automation, by tying in actions and activities to specific movements, such as turning on lights when you enter the room and native on-device notifications for important alerts.   Eventually, Google will want to move into the ‘Internet of Things’ space, with connected accessories taking care of the home automation. Google will be competing with arch-rival Apple, who is **working on a ‘smarthome’ platform** , according to the most recent report.   Dropcam, which sells its cameras through the Apple Store, has been a crucial partner for the Cupertino company in this segment. Apple plans to turn the iPhone and iPad into a remote control for lights, security systems and other home appliances, which will no doubt involve Dropcam as well.   The bigger picture for Google is having flourishing interests in personal entertainment ( **Android TV,** Google Play and Chromecast), personal communication (Android tablets and smartphones), **health (Android Wear),**  home automation ( **Nest** , and possibly Dropcam), **car entertainment (Android in the Car)** , and **work (Chrome OS)** . The company sees these as the key areas to exploit in the next few years, areas that can lead to higher revenues through ads. It’s already open to the possibility of extending the crucial ads business to Nest and in-car systems. Having a leg in the home and security space, will open up a lot more opportunities for the company in that regard.