This post was originally published on irvingside.com

Google’s acquisition of Nest last week made national headlines for a number of reasons. Unfortunately for both Google and Nest, the public’s overt concern over privacy issues tarnished what was supposed to be a joyous day. Shortly after the announcement was made, Nest’s Facebook page was bombarded by angry comments by worried and disappointed consumers. Some threatened to boycott the brand while others threatened to return their Nest products. Are consumers finally taking a stand against engineering phenomenons that track their everyday lives?

The acquisition’s backlash makes a compelling case for a market for “just good enough” products, smarter than your grandparents’ devices, but dumber than state of the art technology. Imagine standing at your local home appliance store or consumer electronics store. If prices are the same would you choose a Nest thermostat that has sensors that monitor your habits and movements over another brand’s thermostat lacking sensors and intelligent algorithms? What if the non-Nest thermostat is now cheaper due to simpler technology and more cost-effective manufacturing?

Privacy. Price. How will consumers vote with their dollars?