This week, Prime Day deals have dominated in particular. But also outside of Amazon there were again some exciting news around Apple HomeKit and Matter, which we summarize in this post.
Affordable HomeKit motion detector for outdoor use
In the realm of HomeKit-enabled outdoor motion detectors, there’s an affordable option that few have on their radar.
Priced at just $12.99, the IKEA TRÅDFRI motion sensor is a cost-effective option if you already own an IKEA Hub. It is certified IP44 and thus protected against rain.
Zemismart presents Matter in-wall module
Zemismart has launched a new in-wall module that integrates seamlessly with HomeKit thanks to Matter. The switch is placed behind a single or dual light switch and allows control of up to two loads.
The module is available for the price of 15,65€ via the manufacturer’s own online store and with the community discount code “SMARTAPFEL” you can save an additional 10%.
Hands-on: New Aqara Contact Sensor P2 with Thread
Aqara recently released its first Thread device, the P2 door and window sensor. Unlike most Aqara Zigbee devices, this sensor no longer requires a separate hub.
The P2 sensor is well-made, but with dimensions of 77 × 22 × 22 mm, it is a good deal larger than the Zigbee model. It is powered by a CR123A battery. We took a look at the sensor in a hands-on test and report our experiences in our review. A discount code is also available for the sales launch of the new sensor.
Update for Bosch Smart Home Controller II extends HomeKit compatibility
Bosch has released an update for its Smart Home Controller II that further expands Apple HomeKit integration. Now more devices, including the light/shutter control II, the radiator thermostat II, the room thermostat II 230 V and the relay are available in HomeKit.
Users who switch from a first-generation controller can also easily transfer their system data to the new device.
Philips Hue update: Natural light adapts to the sunset
Philips Hue has updated its app to version 4.46 and offers an improved “Natural Light” scene. This can be set to automatically adjust to the local sunset time, as opposed to just set times.
The update to version 4.46.0 can be downloaded for free from the App Store.
IKEA RODRET: New wireless dimmer launches without HomeKit
IKEA has expanded its Smarthome offering with the RODRET wireless dimmer, which can control up to ten light fixtures. Although the dimmer can be connected to the IKEA DIRIGERA or IKEA TRÅDFRI gateway, it is not currently displayed in HomeKit.
Powered by a AAA battery, the switch has a range of up to ten meters and is available now for €5.99.
Nanoleaf update enables use as Thread Border Router in HomeKit
A new update to Nanoleaf now allows full use of Shapes, Elements and Lines products as Thread Border Router in HomeKit. This effectively makes these the first third-party Thread Border Routers that can be used alongside or even instead of Apple’s own devices.
While Nanoleaf’s lamps can’t replace Apple’s own devices as home hubs, the update expands their functionality as Thread Border Router that connects Thread devices to the home network. This could be especially attractive for HomeKit users who do not have a Home Hub with Thread in use.
Firmware update for IKEA Dirigera Hub available
IKEA has released a new firmware update for the Dirigera Hub this week. With version 2.354.0 some improvements and bug fixes have been made.
Special attention is paid to the integration of Sonos speakers. These may not have been accessible. IKEA has now resolved the problem with the update.
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