HomeKit Insider Podcast
On this episode of the HomeKit Insider Podcast, we break down the news from Google’s special event, the launch of the Aqara FP1E presence sensor, and more smart home news.
This week our guest host is Shane Whatley. He’s a growing YouTuber who focuses on smart home content, particularly Apple Home.
The big news this week though was Google’s media event where it took the wraps off the new fourth generation Nest Learning Thermostat and the Google TV streaming box.
This will be the first Nest learning thermostat to work with Apple Home thanks to Matter and the streaming box represents a discontinuation of the Chromecast line.
Also in the news is the Sonos earnings call where the CEO reaffirmed the company’s dedication to improving their mobile app. It has since continued to get new features and bug fixes roughly every two weeks.
However, because of this, they’ve had to delay two major new products that were set for Q4 2024. These were most likely the rumored Arc 2 soundbar and Apple TV competitor.
In the meantime, Govee has launched a new Matter-enabled table lamp recently. It has a domed top, similar to a colorful cloche.
It connects over Wi-Fi and works with Apple Home by way of Matter. It supports multiple colors and can even show images in the middle when used with the Govee app.
Also this week, Aqara brought the highly-anticipated FP1E to the US market, its new, more affordable presence sensor. It still requires an Aqara hub but it’s more affordable than the FP2.
Presence sensors are more accurate than motion sensors and can be used to automate accessories like lights. We do a quick hands-on review during the episode.
We wrap the episode by talking about the WeLove air purifier. This is the very first purifier to work with Matter, but represents an issue when used with Apple Home.
Links from the HomeKit Insider podcast
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