Meross has launched its first Matter-certified smart thermostat for North American HVAC systems, priced at $99.99. This thermostat, compatible with 95% of heating and cooling systems, integrates with major smart home platforms like Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home without needing a cloud connection. It features a touch screen, smart scheduling, and system usage tracking via the Meross app. While it lacks some advanced features of competitors like the Nest Thermostat, it is the most affordable Matter-compatible option available, supporting room sensors and the latest Matter 1.4 spec for enhanced functionality.
Smart displays are gaining renewed attention, with companies like Apple reportedly developing new devices to manage smart home systems. Apple's potential entry into the market could emphasize privacy, as seen with its HomePod, and may push competitors to follow suit. The device is expected to integrate with Apple's HomeKit, offering control over various smart home devices and featuring AI navigation, FaceTime, and other Apple apps. This move could challenge existing products like Google's Nest Hub and Amazon's Echo Show.
Apple is reportedly developing a smart display, dubbed the HomePad, to enhance its smart home ecosystem. This device aims to simplify home automation by integrating Apple's HomeKit and leveraging the new Matter standard for connectivity. The HomePad will feature a user-friendly interface combining voice and touch controls, potentially overcoming the limitations of current smart displays. However, Apple's success hinges on improving Siri's capabilities to provide a seamless user experience. The HomePad is expected to run on a new homeOS, enhancing Apple's smart home offerings.
A low-cost humidity and temperature sensor, similar to Xiaomi's, can be reprogrammed for custom use. Maker's Fun Duck demonstrates how to modify the device's firmware, which includes an ARM Cortex M0 processor and Bluetooth capabilities, to expand its functionality beyond the vendor's app. The sensor, priced at about a dollar, offers potential for various applications with custom firmware, despite its basic LCD and sensor accuracy concerns.
The article reviews the best smart shades, blinds, and curtains of 2023, offering options for different needs and budgets. The SmartWings Motorized Roller Shades take the top spot for their versatility and compatibility with major smart home ecosystems. Yoolax Motorized Cellular Shades are the runner-up, offering a range of styles and some smart home integration. For budget-conscious consumers, Ikea's Fyrtur Roller Blind is recommended. The Eve MotionBlinds Upgrade Kit is the best retrofit option for roller blinds, while the SwitchBot Blind Tilt and SwitchBot Curtain 3 are suggested for retrofitting Venetian blinds and curtains, respectively. The article also provides tips on choosing the right smart shades and highlights the practical benefits of automated window treatments.
Philips has expanded its smart home offerings with the Philips Hue Secure wired camera, designed to integrate with the Hue lighting system. The camera features a 1080p resolution, a wide field of view, and reliable motion notifications, but requires a Hue Bridge and a subscription for full functionality. Despite its solid design and easy setup, the camera's need for a subscription and lack of local storage may deter some users, especially when considering more affordable alternatives in the market. The camera's seamless integration with Hue lights and the ability to trigger various actions make it a potentially attractive option for existing Philips Hue users.
