Samsung, Google-owned Nest Labs, and five other companies have partnered to create Thread Group, which will focus on developing a new wireless networking protocol for smart homes. Thread uses both the same frequency and radio chips as Zigbee, a standards-based wireless technology utilized by products like Phillips’ customizable Hue LED light bulbs.

This cannot come soon enough. I have some smart home devices, with each system having its own configuration and setup process. I really look forward to the day when this is simplified and all companies adhere to the new standard.

Fortunately, if you are using android there is an app called Imperihome that does combine several networked devices but even this app would benefit from Thread, as this would mean a simpler setup procedure.