Former Apple executive Tony Fadell on Tuesday introduced the second iteration of his company's Nest Learning Thermostat, touting a 20 percent size reduction and enhanced heating and cooling functions.
Original Nest (left) compared to second-generation unit.
In a post to Nest's blog, Fadell the second-generation thermostat's features such as new hardware and software, wider compatibility, more apps and a refreshed design. Along with the device's debut, the company is rolling out version 3.0 of its Nest software for existing owners.
As far as hardware is concerned, the brings a revamped wiring layout with compatibility for two stage cooling and dual fuel systems, emergency heat, and whole-home humidifiers and dehumidifiers. The unit's face is now a one-piece "lens," doing away with the original device's sensor grill.
Carried over from the first-generation product is Wi-Fi connectivity, programmable functions based on usage patterns and remote control over wireless via supported apps.
Just as in the , Fadell, also known as the "grandfather of the iPod," designed the new Nest with an aluminum enclosure and easy-to-use interface.
The second-generation Nest Learning Thermostat comes in and is available for pre-order through the company's online store.