In the realm of smart home technology, Nanoleaf’s long-awaited smart switch has finally arrived after nearly a decade of development. The $30 Sense Plus Smart Wireless “Anywhere” Switch is now available for pre-order and expected to ship in October. This innovative battery-powered device not only brings physical control to Nanoleaf’s smart lighting system but also features built-in motion and light sensors for added convenience. However, the road to the launch of this smart switch was not without its hurdles, as Nanoleaf had to pivot from its original adoption of Thread and develop a new proprietary protocol called Litewave to ensure seamless connectivity.
The Sense, initially announced in 2020 and later reintroduced in 2023, has been eagerly anticipated by fans of Nanoleaf’s RGB lighting line. Unlike traditional smart switches, the Sense allows users to control all the lights in a room or multiple rooms without the need for voice commands or pulling out a smartphone. Similar to Philips Hue’s wireless dimmer switch or Lutron Caseta’s Pico remote, the Sense offers flexibility in its usage by allowing it to be mounted on a wall plate or used as a portable remote. Moreover, the Sense features two configurable buttons that can be programmed within Nanoleaf’s app or integrated with popular platforms like Apple Home and Samsung SmartThings through Matter.
The Sense employs two protocols simultaneously to connect with Nanoleaf’s lights: Matter over Thread and the newly developed Litewave technology. While Matter over Thread is a widely used communication protocol, Nanoleaf faced challenges with its implementation, prompting the development of Litewave to ensure compatibility with all their smart lights. According to Nanoleaf co-founder and CEO Gimmy Chu, finding the right technology for a reliable wireless switch experience was a meticulous process that spanned eight years. Litewave not only provides a robust and reliable local connection but also enables instantaneous control, akin to flipping a physical light switch. Unlike traditional smart switches, the Sense does not require additional Thread border routers or Matter controllers, simplifying the setup process for users.
In response to evolving market demands, Nanoleaf has expanded its product lineup to include the Essentials Matter Wi-Fi A19 Smart Bulb, a departure from its previous Thread-only light bulbs. Priced competitively at $29.99 for a two-pack at Walmart, the Essentials Matter Wi-Fi A19 Smart Bulb is designed to appeal to a broader audience unfamiliar with Thread technology. By embracing Wi-Fi connectivity, Nanoleaf aims to cater to the mass market while still offering cutting-edge smart home solutions. This strategic shift reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and adaptability in the competitive smart home market.
Nanoleaf’s decision to develop proprietary protocols and explore alternative connectivity options underscores the challenges faced by manufacturers in the rapidly evolving smart home landscape. With the emergence of Matter and ongoing developments in Thread technology, companies like Nanoleaf are navigating a complex ecosystem to deliver seamless and intuitive smart home experiences to consumers. As the industry continues to evolve, manufacturers must remain agile and innovative in their approach to product development and connectivity solutions. While challenges persist in the integration of new protocols, the future holds promise for enhanced interoperability and feature parity across smart home devices.
Nanoleaf’s debut of the Sense smart switch marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards delivering advanced smart home solutions. Through the development of innovative protocols like Litewave and strategic product diversification, Nanoleaf is poised to capture a wider audience and solidify its position as a leading player in the smart home market. As the smart home industry continues to evolve, Nanoleaf’s commitment to technological innovation and user-centric design sets a compelling precedent for future advancements in connected living.
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