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Aqara has showcased an array of new smart home solutions at IFA 2024 in Berlin. The company’s latest offerings span various categories, including home security, safety, energy efficiency, and interoperability.
Enhanced Home Security and Safety
Camera Hub G5 Pro: Advanced Outdoor Surveillance
Aqara’s first foray into outdoor surveillance cameras, the Camera Hub G5 Pro, marks a notable addition to their security portfolio. Available in both Power over Ethernet (PoE) and Wi-Fi versions, this 4MP camera boasts several advanced features:
- True Colour Night Vision for clear footage in low-light conditions
- On-device AI capabilities for detecting and recognising faces, vehicles, pets, and packages
- End-to-end encryption for live and recorded videos
- eMMC storage with cloud and local NAS server syncing options
- Wide compatibility with major platforms including Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings
- RTSP support for streaming to NVRs and video servers
- Built-in Zigbee 3.0 hub for connecting outdoor and indoor devices
The G5 Pro’s comprehensive feature set positions it as a robust solution for homeowners seeking to enhance their property’s security.
Aqara Panel Hub S1 Plus EU
The Aqara Panel Hub S1 Plus EU was mentioned in the official press release but it was on display at the Aqara booth. This appears to be the EU/UK variant of the Scene Panel S1 Plus that’s been out for a while.
Flagship Display: At the heart of the Panel Hub S1 Plus EU is an impressive 5-inch smart home control panel. This touchscreen interface not only provides local video streaming capabilities but also serves as a central hub for voice control functions.
Versatile Connectivity: The device supports both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections, ensuring stable network integration. It’s also equipped with wireless switches that are compatible with HomeKit and other ecosystems, enhancing its interoperability with various smart home platforms.
Flexible Placement: For users who prefer alternative mounting options, the Panel Hub S1 Plus EU includes a USB-C port, allowing for desktop placement and added versatility in installation.
Technical Specifications
The Panel Hub S1 Plus EU boasts a compact form factor, measuring 172 x 86 x 43.7 mm. Its high-resolution display (1440 x 720) ensures crisp visuals for an enhanced user experience. The device is designed to operate on standard European mains voltage (100-240V, 50/60Hz) and can handle substantial power loads:
- Maximum 2200W for incandescent lamps
- Maximum 400W for other types of loads (e.g., LED lighting)
It’s built to function reliably in a wide range of environmental conditions, with an operating temperature range of -10°C to 40°C and humidity tolerance up to 95% RH without condensation.
User Interface
The image showcases the Panel Hub’s sleek interface, displaying the time (11:35) prominently alongside the date (Friday, September 6). The home screen appears to offer quick access to essential smart home functions, including:
- Security controls (Arm/Disarm)
- Garage door management
- Additional smart home controls, likely customisable to user preferences
Garage Door Controller T2 Kit: Smart Access Control
Addressing the often-overlooked garage area, Aqara introduces the Garage Door Controller T2 Kit. This smart controller offers:
- Control for up to two sectional garage doors
- Real-time monitoring of garage door status via a wireless sensor
- Multiple access methods including geofencing, voice assistants, mobile apps, and automations
- Compatibility with Alexa, HomeKit, Google Home, and Matter-enabled platforms (via a compatible Aqara hub)
- Seamless integration with other smart devices from Aqara and third-party brands
By incorporating the garage into the smart home ecosystem, Aqara provides users with a more comprehensive and secure home access solution.
Valve Controller T1: Automated Leak Prevention
The Valve Controller T1 is designed to work in tandem with leak detectors, such as Aqara’s Water Leak Sensor. Key features include:
- Automatic shut-off of water or gas systems in response to potential leaks
- Compatibility with lever and butterfly handle valves on DN15, DN20, and DN25 pipes
- Wireless, retrofit design for easy DIY installation
- No pipe modification or rewiring required
This device adds an extra layer of protection against water and gas leaks, potentially preventing significant property damage.
Smoke Detector: Long-lasting Fire Safety
Aqara’s new Smoke Detector offers robust fire safety features:
- Powerful 85-decibel siren triggered at the first sign of smoke
- Alarm triggering for all siren-equipped Aqara hubs and grouped smoke detectors
- Zigbee protocol for reliable communication
- Ultra-long battery life of up to 10 years, minimising maintenance needs
The Smoke Detector’s long battery life and interconnected alarm system provide homeowners with a reliable, low-maintenance fire safety solution.
Expanded Energy Management and Smart Lighting
H2 EU Wall Switches: Versatile Control Options
Aqara expands its European energy management lineup with a new series of Thread-enabled wall switches:
- Light Switch H2 EU
- Dimmer Switch H2 EU
- Shutter Switch H2 EU
These switches feature:
- Dual Thread and Zigbee communication
- Option for native Matter compatibility via Thread protocol
- Zigbee protocol option for extended features like power monitoring and switch-light decoupling
- Compatibility with both neutral and non-neutral wire setups
The versatility of these switches caters to various user preferences and installation scenarios, simplifying the adoption of smart lighting controls.
LED Bulb T2: Flexible Lighting Solutions
The Thread-enabled LED Bulb T2 enhances Aqara’s smart lighting offerings:
- Available in RGB CCT and CCT versions
- RGB CCT version offers tunable whites (2000-9000K) and 16 million colours
- Thread and Zigbee communication for flexibility in smart home setups
- Available in E26, E27, and GU10 fittings
These bulbs provide users with extensive options for creating the perfect ambiance, from productivity-enhancing white light to mood-setting colour spectrums.
Matter Integration and New Partnerships
Advanced Matter Bridging
Aqara’s Hub M3 is receiving an update to include Advanced Matter Bridging:
- Allows syncing of conditions (“IF”) and actions (“THEN”) from Aqara Home app to third-party Matter apps
- Enables exposure of Aqara-exclusive features (e.g., hand gesture recognition, camera auto-cruise activation) to other platforms
- Facilitates more sophisticated home automation across different ecosystems
This feature significantly enhances the interoperability of Aqara devices within the broader smart home landscape.
Home Assistant Partnership
Aqara announces its participation in the Work with Home Assistant programme:
- Initial certified devices include Hub M3, Smart Lock U200, and Motion and Light Sensor P2
- More Aqara products expected to receive certification in coming months
This partnership expands Aqara’s reach to the substantial Home Assistant user base, offering optimised experiences for these users.
Tesla EV Integration
Aqara now offers integration with Tesla electric vehicles:
- Allows incorporation of Tesla EVs into Aqara Home automations
- Enables smart charging during off-peak hours
- Facilitates automated vehicle preparation (e.g., starting air conditioning) as part of morning routines
This integration demonstrates Aqara’s commitment to creating a more comprehensive and interconnected smart home experience.
Voice Control with Privacy Focus
Voice Mate H1: Intuitive Voice Interaction
Aqara introduces the Voice Mate H1, a privacy-focused voice control accessory:
- Compact, battery-powered device with built-in microphone
- Works as an accessory to the Aqara Hub M3
- Enables voice control of the AI-powered Aqara Copilot from anywhere in the home
- Activates only when picked up, enhancing privacy protection
Unlike always-on voice assistants, the Voice Mate H1 prioritises user privacy while still offering convenient voice control capabilities.
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
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