By Why is the new Nest Learning Thermostat such a potentially big deal? Because for the first time ever, a thermostat is sexy.
Nest Learning Thermostats have their eyes set on an energy-efficient future.
Thermostat technology and design were stagnant for generations until the introduction of programmable models, which were supposed to revolutionize – and reduce – home energy use by giving people the power to preset changing temperatures based on use patterns. The problem: no one used them. According to the EPA, 90 percent of those who purchased programmable thermostats didn’t even program them. Their designs were frequently boring and their functionality overly complicated. People weren’t inspired.
Enter stage left a team of former Apple geniuses and artificial intelligence geeks. They formed a company called Nest Labs and the first thing they do is design a cute, simple, sophisticated thermostat that functions and looks like a wall-mounted iPod but has the power to modify house temperatures based on what it learns about your patterns through sensors and algorithms. After being manually adjusted for a week or so, the Nest Learning Thermostat becomes a self-regulating, energy-efficiency-seeking machine. Should you decide you want to change any settings, you can do so from any location using your smart phone or tablet.
You can get a quick glimpse of Nest Learning Thermostats by watching this promo: 
This smart thermostat can potentially reduce energy use worldwide. Like the best Apple technology, it has the capacity inspire people through intuitive design. Energy efficiency + design + coolness = widespread adoption. It’s like an iPod with a conscience.
You can order one directly from the Nest Labs website or from Best Buy.
Just when I'm finally comfortable with the programmable thermostat, along comes the next hi-tech generation of "learning" thermostats.
I wonder if the Nest Learning Thermostat can figure out my ever-changing daily schedule?