I don't like it either, but for a different reason. This is an example of narrow thinking: let's solve an immediate issue, rather than rethink the whole problem from the ground up.
How often do you need to control a single light that is in a different place than where you stand?
The problem is not with the light switch UI, it's with the whole concept of manually controlling every single light in the house. Why can't we have lighting that senses where we are and adapts accordingly? Why can't our lights go off when we lock the door?
Rather than get excited about a conceptually complex light switch, I'd like to see a home lighting system that doesn't require one in the first place.
To me this is one of those examples where you might re-think the whole problem from the ground up, then take a step back when realizing the absolute solution is not the perfect solution.
Take for example, the clap-it lights; while yes it requires less effort than walking over and flicking the switch, it's also extremely annoying to do. Likewise, I would get really annoyed when lights go on and off according to where I walk.
Of course I don't have a Nest either and yet it does fill a need for some people.
How often do you need to control a single light that is in a different place than where you stand?
The problem is not with the light switch UI, it's with the whole concept of manually controlling every single light in the house. Why can't we have lighting that senses where we are and adapts accordingly? Why can't our lights go off when we lock the door?
Rather than get excited about a conceptually complex light switch, I'd like to see a home lighting system that doesn't require one in the first place.