There are literally thousands of combinations and permutatations of hardware and software you can use to enable varying levels of home automation, and another example has been documented by Instructables member Samuel LIU whose system allows for an iPhone to control power outlets over a local WAN.
Usually any mention of an iPhone will give some people a headache, however in this instance the code is written using pythonista, a python IDE for iOS. This can then send commands back to a Raspberry Pi which controls a relay module via GPIO. And thus the outlet and in this example a lamp can be controlled from the phone, for example:
Although it's a simple demonstration, this project gives you the framework for another home automation option from a popular handheld device. For mode details, visit the project Instructable page. And for more, we're on facebook, Google+, and twitter - so follow us for news and product updates as well.
If you need to connect external circuitry to your Raspberry Pi such as the relay control project above, consider our PiBreak board. It provides labelled breakout pins for all GPIOs, a large prototyping area with solder pads, and power rails for easy power connection:
Furthermore the PiBreak also includes mounting hardware to firmly attach it to your Raspberry Pi using a nut, bolt, and spacer - and is compatible with all revisions of both model A and B Raspberry Pi computers. For more information about our PiBreak board, our Getting Started guide, and to order - visit the product page.