Nanoleaf has finally unveiled its long-awaited smart switch called the Sense Plus Smart Wireless Switch. Priced at $30, this device brings physical control to Nanoleaf’s smart lighting system. It allows users to easily turn lights on or off, dim or brighten, and change colors with the press of a button. The Sense Plus also includes built-in motion and light sensors that adjust the lighting based on room conditions, enhancing the overall user experience.
One of the key highlights of the Sense Plus is Nanoleaf’s development of a proprietary protocol called Litewave. This protocol was created after the company pivoted from its initial adoption of Thread. By using Litewave in conjunction with Matter over Thread, the Sense Plus can seamlessly communicate with all Nanoleaf lights, regardless of whether they use Thread, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. This dual-protocol approach ensures reliable and instantaneous control of multiple lights without the “popcorn” effect where lights turn on one after another.
Nanoleaf’s Innovation Journey
According to Nanoleaf’s co-founder and CEO, Gimmy Chu, developing the Sense Plus Smart Wireless Switch has been an eight-year journey. The company faced challenges with Thread implementation, leading to the creation of Litewave for a more dependable user experience. By prioritizing reliability and ease of use, Nanoleaf has succeeded in creating a smart switch that offers fast and seamless control of smart lighting.
In addition to the Sense Plus Smart Wireless Switch, Nanoleaf is expanding its smart lighting ecosystem with the release of the Essentials Matter Wi-Fi A19 Smart Bulb. This bulb marks a shift towards Matter over Wi-Fi, catering to a broader audience and making smart lighting more accessible to the mass market. By diversifying its product offerings, Nanoleaf is positioning itself for continued growth and success in the smart home market.
Industry Trends and Future Outlook
Nanoleaf’s decision to embrace Matter over Wi-Fi reflects a broader trend in the industry, with companies like Aqara also incorporating multiple protocols to provide users with more flexibility and choice. As Thread technology continues to evolve with updates like Thread 1.4, manufacturers are exploring alternative solutions to ensure seamless connectivity and compatibility with a wide range of devices. While the future of smart home technology holds promise, companies like Nanoleaf are navigating the complex landscape of protocols and standards to deliver innovative and reliable products to consumers.
The Nanoleaf Sense Plus Smart Wireless Switch represents a significant milestone in Nanoleaf’s journey towards creating a more interconnected and intelligent smart home ecosystem. With its innovative technology, user-friendly design, and seamless integration with Nanoleaf lights, the Sense Plus sets a new standard for smart home control. As the smart home market continues to evolve, Nanoleaf’s commitment to innovation and user experience will undoubtedly drive further advancements in the industry.