Alphabet’s Nest said to work on cheaper thermostat

A Nest thermostat is installed in a home in Provo, Utah, January 15, 2014. REUTERS/George Frey/Files

Alphabet Inc's Nest, seeking a bigger share of the connected home market, is developing a cheaper version of its flagship thermostat and new home security products, according to a person familiar with the matter.  

The company is working on a version of its “learning thermostat,” which adjusts the temperature based on usage patterns, that would sell for under US$200 (RM889), the person said. The current version sells for US$249 (RM1,108). The cheaper model would include less expensive components and at least one internal prototype lacks the flagship model's metal edges, the person said.