Two-way audio refers to a system with a built-in speaker and microphone. Nest doorbells have this audio feature, which helps in communicating with the people at the front door. Two-audio system is available on both wired and wireless doorbells. They transfer the audio through an encrypted channel to protect the privacy. These Nest doorbells work best with the Nest Hub when it comes to communication. Nest Hub is a two-in-one display with a smart LED screen and speakers. They have a Google Assistant that provides sound alerts when someone rings the doorbell. 

What Do You Need to Use Two-Way Audio?

Install the Google Home App from the Play Store or App Store to set up the doorbell. Make sure to keep it updated and log in with the Google account. Give the necessary permission to the app, including camera access for facial recognition, and notification to send alerts. Allow the microphone and speaker permissions in the app for communicating. Link the app with a smart display to see the camera live or talk to the Google Assistant when someone rings the doorbell. This is optional on the basis of personal choice. Make sure to have a stable wifi connection to avoid voice lags. 

Poor wifi connection interrupts the audio transmission and delays the alerts. Set up the router near the doorbell with 2.4 GHZ to 5 GHZ strength. Prioritize purchasing the compatible displays for the Google Nest doorbell. The Ring doorbell does not work with Google Assistant. The Amazon Echo Show display works well with the Google Nest doorbell. Set it up through the Amazon Alexa app following the on-screen prompts.

How to Start a Live Conversation Using the Google Home App

Open the Google Home App and go to the Devices tab. Find the Nest doorbell and tap on it. A live camera view starts streaming in front. Three icons also pop up under the live view, including a microphone, a cross, and three dots. Tap on the microphone to talk to the person at the front door. The command, Hey Google, Talk to the front door,” also starts up the conversation.

How to Talk to Visitors Using a Smart Display

Tapping on the microphone starts a conversation. This icon changes color, and “Start” changes into “Done”. Tap on “Done” to end the conversation. The cross icon indicates the action to ignore. It means that the owner does not want to talk to the visitor, and it dismisses the announcement. It blocks the announcement only for one instead of permanently. 

How to Use Quick Responses (Pre-Recorded Messages)

The three-dot icon under the live camera preview is a quick  “Responses” button. It allows sending pre-recorded messages like “Leave it there” and “Thank you”. There are also responses like “We’ll be right there,” and “Please leave the package by the door.” They work well when the person is unable to talk or just wants to leave a quick message. These pre-recorded responses can also be customized depending on the model and compatibility of the doorbell with the display.

How to Adjust Two-Way Audio Settings

Go to settings in the Google Home app and then navigate to the “Audio” tab. Adjust the volume according to the requirement and change the doorbell announcements. Control the Echo Noise Cancellation for clarity in audio, and also enable the noise reduction. This feature ignores the wind sounds and provides clear audio. There is also an option to turn on the audio recording with videos. Turn it on or off depending on the model of the doorbell. A battery doorbell consumes more energy, so it is recommended to keep it off in them.

What Are Common Issues with Two-Way Audio?

Here are the four common issues with two-way audio:

1. No Sound from Visitor: A disabled microphone is the most common issue when there is no sound from the visitor. Check the app permission and give access to the microphone. Make sure to check the wifi connection and if the mobile is muted. A weak battery of the doorbell and weather also influence the transmission of sound.
2. Visitor Can’t Hear You: Check the microphone permission and if the device is connected to Bluetooth. This issue occurs when the doorbell volume is too low or there is too much echo in the surroundings. 
3. Audio Delay or Lag: There is a delay in audio transmission due to cloud processing time. Audio crosses multiple channels, including air and the Google server, to reach the phone. Too much delay is a sign of poor wifi connection and local network congestion. Avoid opening multiple tabs on your mobile to experience better audio.
4. Echo or Feedback: Stand at a distance from the doorbell to avoid echo or feedback. Turn on the echo cancellation or suppression from the Google Home App to avoid such issues.