Aqara is introducing an array of new devices, including a Thread border router-enabled smart plug and the Thread-capable Smart Lock U300. Among the highly anticipated releases are the Aqara M3 hub and Copilot, a new AI app by Aqara.
Aqara M3 Hub
The Aqara Hub M3, building on its predecessor, the Aqara Hub M2, retains pivotal features such as Zigbee hub capabilities and an infrared (IR) blaster while adding Thread and Matter. This evolutionary leap positions the M3 as a versatile Matter controller and Thread Border Router, making it the central hub for a seamless, local, and future-proof smart home experience. With additional features like dual-band Wi-Fi and Power over Ethernet (PoE), the M3 offers enhanced flexibility and stability.
Serving as the cornerstone in the Matter-enabled Aqara ecosystem, the Hub M3 goes beyond supporting Aqara accessories and infrared-compatible devices. It now enables the integration of third-party Matter devices into Aqara Home and should expose compatible devices to Apple Home, providing users with a unified and comprehensive smart home experience through a single product. Moreover, the M3 exposes connected IR devices to Matter, empowering users to manage and automate their infrared ACs and TVs using Aqara Home or any preferred Matter ecosystems.
The Aqara Hub M3 is slated for global release in Q2 2024.
Aqara Thread Border Router Smart Plug
The Aqara Border Router Plug introduces a groundbreaking leap in smart plug technology, marking one of the initial smart plugs to integrate Thread Border Router capabilities. Boasting Thread and dual-band Wi-Fi, this plug empowers Matter controllers lacking Thread compatibility to oversee Thread devices, facilitating a smooth assimilation of these devices into smart home systems sans the requirement for a new Matter controller.
Operating in a particularly energy-efficient mode when utilizing Thread alone, it significantly curtails idle consumption while extending the mesh Thread network by managing data packets. Its energy-conscious design furnishes users with real-time and historical data on household energy usage, enabling the automation of electrical devices for reduced energy wastage.
Moreover, the Border Router Plug boasts the capability to detect the on/off status of the connected appliance, thereby triggering Aqara Home automations accordingly. For instance, users can effortlessly automate the closure of curtains upon the activation of the TV.
The new Aqara Thread Border Router smart plug is expected to ship the second half of 2024.
Aqara U300 Thread smart lock
The Aqara Smart Lock U300 stands because of it is introduced with Matter and Thread compatibility. Its standout feature is its unparalleled adaptability across various smart home platforms, including Apple Home. With an impressive battery life lasting up to 8 months and improved local control, it prioritizes responsiveness, privacy, and security.
Crafted for both indoor and outdoor use, the U300 replaces conventional US levers or knobs on single-bore doors. It’s an excellent fit for side entries, garage access, home offices, basements, and storage spaces. This smart lock promotes a key-free lifestyle, offering multiple access modes like fingerprints, PIN codes, NFC, and integration with voice assistants, like Siri on the iPhone. Homeowners gain remote control, the ability to grant temporary access to guests, and real-time notifications about entries and exits—all managed conveniently through a smartphone.
Because the U300 supports Matter, users will be be able to add the smart lock to Apple Home. This means users will be able to control the smart lock from the Home App, automations and Siri. However its unlikely that the U300 will support Apple HomeKey at this time.
The new Aqara U300 Thread smart lock is expected to ship the second half of 2024.
New Aqara AI update for its Home App
During CES 2024, Aqara is set to unveil Home Copilot, the latest chatbot interface integrated into the Aqara Home app, leveraging Gen-AI technology. Home Copilot’s primary aim is to elevate user experiences by harnessing ambient intelligence, translating real-time data into actionable insights. Its ultimate goal is to analyze usage patterns within an Aqara-equipped home, intuitively suggesting personalized automations. Moreover, it boasts natural language comprehension, configuring automations based on user requests conveyed through simple voice or text instructions. This innovation enhances the accessibility and user-friendliness of smart home functionalities.
Initially, Home Copilot will introduce Aqara Insights, delivering daily, weekly, and monthly smart home reports to users, alongside tailored plans facilitating energy-saving automations. It will cater to natural language queries concerning Aqara devices and automations, offering proactive support for device setup and troubleshooting. Furthermore, Home Copilot will pioneer an AI-driven customer support interface, catering to Aqara users across more than 10 languages.
You can read more on our coverage of CES 2024 here.
Don’t forget to subscribe for to be notified of the latest HomeKit News, reviews and tutorials. If you have a question or a comment, then leave it below. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.
