On this week's Smart Home Insider podcast, we talk about a unique product from Nanoleaf, what's going on with smart home cameras, and the Sonos app update that is better, but still not quite where it needs to be.
Almost a year after being first announced, the EU and UK version of the Aqara H2 smart plug is finally available to order. While a bit on the expensive side, it's one of the most full-featured smart plugs available.
This plug is dual protocol, working with both Zigbee and Thread. The former protocol adds extra abilities via the Aqara app and the latter supports Matter directly to many ecosystems.
One of the more unique capabilities is a small status light located on the side of the smart plug. This can be used with the Aqara app for real-time energy monitoring or as a fully Matter-controlled smart light.
In other product news, Nanoleaf has a new modular monitor stand up for preorder. This new stand has dual integrated smart lights: a white task light in the front and an RGB light along the back.
This stand is about 40 inches wide and raises your monitor about five inches for more ergonomic viewing. The lights work with Matter-over-Thread, and as such, support Apple Home.
Nanoleaf includes all of its smart features too, such as music sync and screen mirroring that are both found in its other products. Finally, there are a multitude of 1/4-inch threads so you can mount various accessories, like cameras, mics, or phone holders.
In other news, Sonos has a big new app update rolling out. This update includes tabbed navigation, the ability to reorder devices and rooms, and more granular volume control.
After the news, we get into some discussion on some first-home picks. We go through some of the starter essentials like smart lights, locks, and thermostats that will work with older homes.
Finally, your host gets into the current state of home automation cameras. With a lot of players, limited choices, and a mixed bag of features, it's hard to find a camera solution that meets all your needs.
Hopefully Matter will be putting some of these issues to rest, but it remains to be seen how long until all major ecosystems support it.
Links from the Smart Home Insider podcast
- Aqara H2 Smart Plug Amazon - Germany
- Nanoleaf Monitor Stand
- Sonos App Update Details
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