Google announced a major update of its Brillo platform for developing connected devices, under the new name Android Things. The new platform, available now in a developer preview, will assist Android developers in building smart devices using Android APIs and Google services. It includes tools such as Android Studio, the Android Software Development Kit, Google Play Services and Google Cloud Platform.
Hardware suppliers are lined up to support Android Things, including Qualcomm, Intel, NXP Semiconductors and the Raspberry Pi. Google also promised to push regular updates with OS patches and security fixes.
In addition, Google has lined up more support for its Weave networking protocol to connect IoT devices. Philips Hue and Samsung SmartThings already use Weave, and several others like Belkin WeMo, LiFX, Honeywell, Wink, TP-Link, and First Alert are implementing it. Weave provides the cloud infrastructure for devices to communicate and can be integrated in supported microcontrollers with a SDK and management console.
The current Weave Device SDK supports light bulbs, smart plugs and switches, and thermostats. In the coming months Google said it will be adding support for additional device types, custom schemas/traits and a mobile application API for Android and iOS. Furthermore the Nest Weave protocol, used only for devices from Nest Labs, will be opened up and integrated with the broader Weave community.
