Around 2 years ago iPod creators Tony Fadell and Matt Rogers presented the Nest intelligent thermostat. Now the duo shift their efforts towards the humble smoke alarm, launching the Protect internet-connected smoke detector.

Clearly wanting to do what the Nest did to thermostats, the Protect makes smoke alarms more interesting-- if not more sexy, since instead of howling in alarm the Protect informs of emergencies by speaking in a human voice, with messages such as "heads-up, there’s smoke in the bedroom” or “emergency, there’s smoke.”

The default language is English, but it can also speak in French or Spanish.

Wifi connectivity allows it to forward alerts to smartphones via Nest app or connect with Nest thermostats to automatically turn heating off in case of carbon monoxide detection.

As well as smoke the Protect detects motion-- meaning users can turn it off with a simple wave should the alarm go off due to non-emergencies (such as a bad case of burnt morning toast). It also acts as a night light of sorts, briefly flashing a green light should one pass beneath it during the night.

The Protect should be available in the UK from November 2013 in both wired (120V) and battery-powered versions.

Go Nest Protect