The smart home battleground

The “Internet of Things” is the next major technology battle, pitting Google’s Nest against Apple’s HomeKit for dominance of the smart home
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“INTERNET OF THINGS”

Everyday objects use network connectivity to send and receive data. Can be controlled by smartphone, tablet or smartwatch

Environment monitor Monitors air quality, temperature, humidity, air pressure and home appliance energy use

Door lock Opens or closes windows and doors. Can access thermostat to warm or cool house on entry

Thermostat Measures temperature and occupancy in multiple rooms around home, making adjustments accordingly

Security Cameras record time-lapse video. Activated by motion sensor

Smart plug Plugs into wall socket allowing remote access to devices or can activate when somebody enters room

Lighting Customises colour, timing and brightness of light bulbs

Wi-fi hub
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GOOGLE NEST

Founded by ex-Apple iPod and iPhone designers and engineers – bought by Google in 2014 for $3.2 billion

Uses tablet or smartphone as control hub for whole house

Uses Google Now personal assistant for voice control

Open system works with Android, iOS or Windows
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APPLE HOMEKIT

Unveiled shortly after Nest buy-out. Apple’s stringent development rules mean third parties have been slow to sign up

Uses iPad, iPhone or Apple TV as control hub for whole house

Uses Siri to control devices by voice command

Enclosed system works only with Apple devices
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Sources: TechRadar, Pocket-lint, CNET, Google, Apple, wire agencies

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