Imagine crossing the threshold after a long day at work to a perfectly lit, temperature-controlled living space. As you walk down the hallway, lights flicker for your approach while a disembodied voice welcomes you with a rundown of messages and alerts as your crockpot bubbles aromatically in the kitchen. It sounds like the stuff of science fiction, but if Samsung, Google and Apple have their way, eventually every home will be a “smart home.” Highlighting their technology’s ability to keep residents apprised of every activity in their home, Samsung’s Smart Things touts a setup that includes an App (available for iOS and Android), a Hub, and collection of up to 200 customizable devices including thermostats, light bulbs, outlets and sensors. The Smart Things app can push notifications to users, and its devices can turn off and on at particular times or based on temperature and vacation settings. Home monitoring through the app provides instant alerts for intrusions, smoke, leaks and other unusual activity. Adding a camera even allows for video footage of flagged events. The Hub connects via Ethernet, and uses ZigBee and Z-Wave radios for IP compatibility and works with products ranging from Sonos to CREE to Honeywell. In line with the company’s seeming commitment to simplified, intuitive technology, Google’s Nest products work together to create a “connected” home environment for easy management of a broad range of devices from electric vehicle charger to automated pet feeder. Nest touts itself as a solution for those seeking “the thoughtful home: A home that takes care of the people inside it and the world around it.” Centered on three main products – Nest Cam, Nest Protect, and Nest Learning Thermostat – the Nest app allows users to access live streaming video and control indoor temperatures...