Although the connected home still faces quite a few challenges. the fact that many products can save consumers money puts a giant check mark in its favor.
Up to 13 percent of U.S. broadband homes had a smart thermostat by the end of last year, according to a Parks Associates study, while smart switches and smart outlets are finding their ways into walls at increasing rates.
Shown here are a few of the newest smart energy-management devices, all of which pledge to decrease wasteful wattage.
The WeMo switches can be used to control home lighting via a smartphone or via Siri voice control (or, of course, manually). They include native HomeKit compatibility to interoperate with other HomeKit devices without requiring additional hardware, and they’re offered in single-pole and three-way configurations for $39.99 and $49.99, respectively. They switches are slated to ship by this summer.
Belkin
This self-powered wireless switch provides one-click control over various smart-home devices, employing energy-harvesting tech so it can operate without cables or batteries. According to the company, the Click saves the energy that’s created each time the button is pressed, converting it into kinetic energy for wireless communication through a Nuimo Hub. It’s currently available for $179, which includes one Click and a Hub.
Scenic
Featuring integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, the T-Series also boasts long-range wireless temperature and humidity sensing thanks to its use of 900MHz radio waves. Room prioritization, meanwhile, enables it to focus on heating specific rooms. It’s scheduled to ship this spring for a $199 suggested retail.
Resideo
Featuring two in-wall sockets that can be separately controlled, the KP200 can remotely power appliances via a smartphone or voice assistant. Users can also set schedules or program an Away Mode for automatic control. It’s currently shipping for $39.99.
Kasa
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