The tech industry will be talking about the "internet of things" this week as Apple, Google and Samsung are rumored to be about to unveil big moves in this sector. Much of the more interesting innovation in tech has moved away from computers and mobile phones toward domestic appliances and wearable devices that have hardware and software to make them smarter or more interactive. The fact that all three companies are reportedly working on IOT developments is not a coincidence.

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Google is reportedly considering buying Dropcam via its Nest home thermostat unit. (Dropcam makes small video cameras that you can set up inside your house so that you can see what's going on while you're away. Nest is the Google business that makes smart, well designed thermostats.) Dropcam recently announced a home security feature that lets its cameras detect people moving in your home. The cloud-powered software then sends an alert to your smartphone app or email account.