Nest, Alphabet’s smart home technology manufacturer, is said to be developing a range of new products. This includes a simpler, cheaper smart home thermostat together with a number of new smart home security devices.

The new, cheaper smart thermostat is reckoned to cost under $200, compared with the current device’s $249 price. In order to reduce the cost, Nest is using cheaper internal components and may be revising the hardware design by removing the premium metal edges. The range of new smart security products is set to include a home-security alarm, doorbell and new security camera.

In addition to the less expensive smart thermostat, Nest is also working on expanding the capabilities of the technology. Currently, the Nest Smart Thermostat smartly controls the overall temperature and anticipates when the controlled space will be occupied. However, a new sensor system could allow the technology (and the customer) to control the temperature of individual rooms rather than the whole home. The industry does not expect Nest to release a new smart thermostat until next year and the company has declined to comment on “future products,” explaining that things are always subject to change. This may be an indication that the possible next-gen smart thermostat is still at an early stage in its development process.

Nest did confirm that they are developing a home security system and it should be out by the end of the year. A prototype system includes a central keypad command module, a number of window and door sensors and a set of key fobs to arm and disarm the system. Naturally, the system will include smartphone integration and smart features, such as allowing the home-owner to authorize visitors. Nest also confirmed that they have “internally discussed” improved motion-activation that could entail face recognition. The company is also considering a digital doorbell with a two-way video intercom system.

Nest was acquired by Google (now Alphabet) for over $3 billion in 2014. Since then, the company has struggled to release new products into the market, but last year saw a change in senior management. Hopefully the new product pipeline and new Chief Executive will benefit Nest over the coming months and years.

SOURCE [Bloomberg]