Smart dwelling firm SwapBot’s new hub will help Matter

The good dwelling firm SwapBot, which makes tiny robots that may do issues for you want press switches, flip locks, and open curtains, is introducing a brand new Matter-enabled hub. The $69 SwapBot Hub 2 arrives in March and can work with all current and new SwapBot Bluetooth gadgets and allow these gadgets which might be supported by the brand new good dwelling commonplace to work with Matter.

The Hub 2 retains the Hub Mini’s IR management perform however with an elevated vary over the Mini. It additionally helps dawn / sundown and geo-fencing automations for SwapBot merchandise and has two buttons on the display screen that may set off scenes or management particular person gadgets.

SwapBot made its title with the SwitchBot Bot, a small field that attaches to a lightweight swap or different button to press it for you robotically. Its vary of merchandise now features a good lock, good curtain, blind controllers, good plugs, and sensors, amongst different gadgets. 

Most SwapBot merchandise are Bluetooth-powered and depend on a hub to connect with the web for out-of-home management, voice assistant compatibility, scheduling, and extra superior automations.

With Matter on board, the brand new Wi-Fi-based SwitchBot Hub can expose current SwapBot Bluetooth merchandise to Matter platforms — together with Apple Home, Google Home, and Samsung SmartIssues. The current hub helps Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartIssues, and Siri shortcuts.

Initially, Matter will solely help a small variety of gadget classes — together with good gentle bulbs, plugs, shades, and locks. SwapBot says it is going to begin with Matter help for its good curtain controller in February, with help for the door lock and Bot coming quickly. SwapBot additionally introduced that its appropriate Wi-Fi merchandise, which embody a sensible plug, might be upgraded to help Matter straight sooner or later, with out the necessity for the Hub.