Nest has unveiled a program to allow third parties to integrate their devices and appliances with smart thermostats and smoke detectors. The goal is to help users create a fully connected home in which a multitude of devices can communicate securely with each other to manage energy consumption and enhance safety and convenience. Several companies have already announced plans to participate in the Nest developer program, including Mercedes Benz, Whirlpool, Jawbone, Logitech and Chamberlain. Google will be fending off privacy concerns as it expands into the home automation market.”]