Some of the largest software and hardware makers in the world, including Microsoft Corp., Qualcomm Inc., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. and Intel Corp., are choosing sides in a battle over communications standards as the world of connected devices evolves into an Internet of Things. Groups including the Qualcomm and Microsoft-backed AllSeen Alliance, the Samsung and Intel-supported Open Interconnect Consortium, and the U.K.-based HyperCat working group are all looking to define the way consumer gadgets talk to one another as more devices become connected to the Internet. This...