Google-owned Nest has launched a facial recognition video doorbell in the UK.

Nest Hello was launched in the US in March and is the first of the internet search giant's home security products to reach the UK.

Priced at £229, the wifi-connected doorbell uses a wide-angle camera to capture high definition video, with night vision after dark.

When someone rings the bell, it sends alerts with pictures from the camera to the customer's phone, allowing them to talk to visitors from anywhere with an internet connection.

The doorbell can also say three short phrases.


Image: The doorbell allows people to 'answer the door' from miles away. Pic: Nest

Google says the technology can recognise the difference between people walking past, visitors and delivery people and burglars hanging around.

For subscribers, the Nest Hello can tell users who is at the door over their Google Home speaker or the doorbell's app by scanning through a portfolio of recognised faces in the user's account.

Lionel Guicherd-Callin, head of EMEA product marketing for Nest Labs, said: "Your front door is where home begins.

"It's the entryway to special moments with family and friends - but also the most common way burglars enter your home.

"So we've designed a doorbell experience that makes your front door more safe and secure, yet still feels friendly.

"You can truly connect with your guests at the door from anywhere."