Next-gen Nest thermostat is thinner, smarter than before

Nest Labs today unveiled Nest 2.0, a 20 percent thinner version of its cutting-edge smart thermostat than the original. It is designed to be compatible with 95 percent of the American and Canadian low-voltage residential heating and cooling market.

Nest 2.0 will cost $249 and be available in mid-October. The new version of the device features ten connectors -- up from eight on the original -- meaning it will now work with a greater number of systems, including high-end air conditioners.

The original Nest had a small section on its front with perforated plastic, which allowed interior sensors to detect nearby movement. The new version loses the perforations, and features what appears to be a single piece of plastic, yet it is just as sensitive to the comings and goings of residents as its predecessor.

The interior of the second-generation Nest learning thermostat, which features ten connectors rather than eight on the previous version.

This image, from Nest Labs, illustrates the features of the thermostat's redesigned interior.

A look at the contents of a Nest 2.0 package.

Although Nest 2.0 improves upon its predecessor, the device's functionality and look at feel remain largely the same.