Aqara has recently released a firmware update for the FP2 presence sensor that comes with a notable new feature: sleep monitoring. However, it is not only the introduction of this feature that attracts our interest, but also the hint of a potential new payment model.
FP2 Occupancy Sensor: More than Just Motion Detection
The Aqara FP2 differs from conventional motion sensors because, thanks to mmWave, it can detect the presence of people even if they are not moving. This can be the solution in situations where, with previous motion detectors, you sometimes sat in the dark, such as in the living room on the sofa or on the toilet in the bathroom.
The sensor can be divided into up to thirty zones, each of which is available as a standalone sensor in HomeKit. This enables precise control and automation. In our case, for example, the desk lamp turns on as soon as someone takes a seat at the desk, while the accent lighting is activated when we sit down on the sofa. You can find our full review here.
The Exciting New Feature: Sleep Monitoring
With the latest firmware update to version 1.2.3, Aqara introduces a sleep monitoring option for the FP2, our friends at HomeKitNews report. This feature provides 24-hour non-contact monitoring of individuals’ sleep status and vital signs. Recorded data includes sleep phase reports, real-time heart rate and respiration rate monitoring, and automated sleep scenarios.
Currently, Aqara offers this feature for free, but with the note “Limited Free”. It is therefore to be expected that it may become chargeable in the future.
For Individuals Only
To use the sleep monitoring function, the FP2 presence sensor must be specifically positioned above the bed with the sensor pointed at the chest area. This mode is designed to monitor individual users and cannot take measurements of multiple people in the bed at the same time.
Currently, the firmware update is available on the Chinese server. However, availability is also expected in Europe and the USA in the foreseeable future.
The Aqara FP2 is currently on sale at Amazon and can be purchased for 10% less thanks to a discount code that you can simply activate on the product page.
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