Rachio today announced the national release of the Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller — Generation 2, the latest version of the leading smart sprinkler controller that brings the smart home outdoors and allows users to manage their sprinkler system from any smart mobile device.

Every day, various aspects of our lives are becoming easier — and more connected — through the Internet of Things and smart home technology.

Amazon today announced two new recipients of the Alexa Fund, Musaic and Rachio. The Alexa Fund will provide up to $100 million in investments dedicated to supporting developers, manufacturers, and start-ups of all sizes who are passionate about creating new experiences designed around the human voice. Musaic and Rachio are the latest additions to the growing portfolio of Alexa Fund recipients, and join the seven previously funded companies announced in June.

Rachio, a Denver-based start-up, has been selling a "smart sprinkler" for the last year. The device takes the place of a traditional control box on an automated home sprinkler system. It hooks the system up to the Internet -- meaning that you can control it from a smartphone.