Nest, which was acquired by Google earlier this year, is going to have plenty of competition. Last month, Apple announced its own home-automation software, called HomeKit. It is due to launch with Apple's iOS8 operating system this year. HomeKit will allow iPhone and iPad users to control door locks, lighting, CCTV cameras and heating/aircon systems – but rather than centring it on a thermostat, like Nest, the Apple TV internet set-top box is expected to act as its hub.