Google announces smart home API for Nest, brings third-party integration

Google has launched a "Works with Nest" certification program and API that allows third-party companies to communicate with Nest's Learning Thermostat and the Nest Protect smoke detector.
Companies initially in the certification program included IFTTT, Jawbone, LIFX, Logitech, Mercedes-Benz, Whirlpool, Chamberlain, and Google. Nest's program website lists several use-cases highlighting the integration with other connected devices, like the ability to connect a Mercedes car to Nest to inform when you will be home so that the the thermostat can automatically initiate the cooling or heating cycle before you arrive. Similarly, you can now connect a Jawbone UP24 to a Nest thermostat, which automatically changes the temperature levels in your house when it detects that you're sleeping, and when you're awake.
Greg Hu, senior product manager at Nest, said that the program was about giving connected home products access to Nest's products. The integration will work differently based on the product that the thermostat is sharing data with. For instance, Wi-Fi LED lightbulb maker LIFX was able to leverage this platform to turn all smart bulbs in a house red whenever the Nest protect detected smoke, adding a visual cue to the auditory alarm.
The inclusion of automation service IFTTT allows further avenues in which Nest sensor data can be utilized and extended. Using IFTTT, you can create text alerts to notify you whenever the CO or temperature levels rise.
Nest co-founder and engineering head Matt Rogers revealed during the announcement that the Nest APIs will be cross-platform, and that the same set of features will be offered to both iOS and Android users. "The home shouldn't be a platform war," Rogers said. "We're going to be neutral. Switzerland."