Home Automation with a Smartphone has been around for awhile.
But now the cost has come down and there are many variations.
The is not really a recommendation of a specific manufacturer. Instead a short revise of what is out there and how it works.
These devices operate on 120 vac in the USA, or 240 vac in other places. They respond to 802.11g Wi-Fi signals from your Android, iPhone or even your router.*
The typical cost is not about $44 for some Belkin models. However, you can get cheap knock-offs from China the are almost as good for simple use.
Take a look at some videos of these kind of gadgets.
(Skip the ads.)
Belkin Wemo Light Switch - Demo (Belkin announced in 2013)
Belkin WeMo Light Switch - iOS in 2013Over There
Wi-Fi control of UK electric socket Low price.
Wi-Fi Smart Wall Socket - $32.09 On eBay you can find a look-alike under $27 plus shipping
No information on the quality.
*You need a router that can relay or forward the protocol for this kind of service.
