Toronto-based startup Ecobee on Thursday announced a $36 million funding windfall from investor Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec. That brings their investment total up to $155 million. Ecobee makes smart thermostats, including our current favorite -- the $249 Editors' Choice-award winning Ecobee4. In addition to its user-friendly app and optional DIY installation, the Ecobee4 has an Alexa speaker built into it. It also works with Google Assistant and HomeKit, Apple's Siri-powered smart home platform. The Amazon Alexa Fund previously invested in Ecobee, pitting it against Google's smart thermostats, the Nest Learning and the Nest E. Ecobee introduced a new device category in March when it launched the Ecobee Switch Plus light switch. Given that Nest's current lineup includes thermostats, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, smart doorbells, security cameras, a security system and a smart lock, Ecobee has a lot of ground to cover. "Now, this round of funding will allow ecobee to continue transforming the way consumers control their homes as we build the world's first home operating system that leverages voice, advanced sensor technology and powerful AI," said Ecobee Founder and CEO, Stuart Lombard in the official press release. We'll see. Now playing: Watch this: Hey, Ecobee, is there an Echo in here? 1:43
Canadian start - up Ecobee has received $ 36 m from investor CDPQ to accelerate development of its smart devices for the home . The Toronto - based company 's latest smart thermostat features a built - in Alexa speaker and supports Google apps and Apple 's smart - home platform HomeKit . The company also introduced the Ecobee Switch Plus light bulb in 2015 . The developer Alexa Fund has previously invested in Ecobee , which is set to rival apple and apple smart products .