Internet Of Things Gift Guide 2015: 6 Ideas To Get Started On The Smart Home Of Your Dreams

Controlling a whole house from a smartphone may sound like science fiction, but it's more feasible than you might think. Thanks to price cuts, advances in tech and better software support, Internet of Things (IoT) technology is no longer just the domain of the early adopter. These six products are an ideal starting gift for people interested in getting their home connected to the future.

Nest Learning Thermostat ($249)

The thinking thermostat. Nest learns the house temperature patterns, setting it at similar temperatures every week and detecting when the home is empty. Nest is also controllable via Wi-Fi. Warm the house up before arriving home, or switch off the central heating on the way out the door. Nest can even detect when someone is nearby, lighting up the display to show the temperature hands-free. The Nest does not, however, support Apple's HomeKit system, so those deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem may want to look elsewhere for Siri voice controls.