Google just purchased Nest (a successful thermostat and alarm-system startup) for a whopping $3.2 BILLION. But why? The possibilities are endless, and though Google doesn’t have the best track record when it comes to acquisitions, this purchase could be a game changer.

Here’s an unusual tidbit: Tony Faddell, a big wig at Nest, actually created the iPod for Apple back in the day and also had deep involvement with the creation of the iPhone. With a union of Nest and Google comes the continued opportunity for home automation via smartphone apps…we’re wondering why Apple didn’t acquire it first, especially because Nest runs on the Apple iOS.

Regardless, we expect to see some super cool advances in home design from Google in 2014…stay tuned!

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Photo courtesy of Fast Company