Nest will now work with your door locks, light bulbs and more

In 2014 the Internet of Things became both a fascinating and scary thing, thanks to interesting products and a few hacks. Nest, while remaining the darling of this new industry, had its own set of problems with the potential issues found in its smoke detectors. But last year is all behind us, and hopefully 2015 holds more promise than problem.

Now the Google-owned company is announcing new functionality for its popular thermostat and perhaps scary smoke detector. The tiny wall and ceiling devices are getting a boatload of new functionality, involving that whole Internet of Things.

For instance, August Smart Locks now work with the thermostat. Unlock your door to enter your home and the Nest will adjust the temperature for your arrival. Lock your door upon leaving and the opposite scenario occurs.

Have you purchased the Philips Hue light bulbs yet? If so then you're also in luck. If Nest Protect senses something wrong it can flash your lights as an alert.

The company has also pared with Ooma, makers of a popular VOIP service, to allow it to send an alert when something happens and you're away. Likewise, Whirlpool is also in the mix -- in this case switching the appliances to quiet mode when you come home.

It's all very futuristic, and perhaps for some a bit scary. However, technology moves forward and folks have to move with it or be left behind (as some always are).