Roger Fingas
ConnectSense on Thursday released the Smart Outlet 2, a HomeKit-compatible accessory that fits on top of a standard North American wall outlet.
The accessory has two outlets of its own, plus a 2.4-amp USB port for charging iPhones, iPads, and other electronics. The product connects to Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for any sort of hub.
Each outlet can be controlled separately. In addition to HomeKit/Siri, the product supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, all three of which can be used to integrate gear into complex scenes and automations.
The ConnectSense iOS app provides some additional details, specifically consumption monitoring and how long something has been plugged in.
The Smart Outlet 2 costs $59 and will be available through Amazon or direct from ConnectSense.
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8 Comments
Whats the value of this? It's cheaper to get 2 outlets of almost any other brand. I'm just waiting for a good affordable smart plug strip.
when is someone going to build a HomeKit based plug to replace the ones in the wall so you don't have a big ugly brick sticking out?
I recall a product that was described as being able to discern what devices were causing current transients on a home power feed, and thus simply learn which devices were consuming power and how much. The idea was intriguing and potentially quite useful, but I never saw the product offered for sale. I've seen some devices that require professional installation on the breaker box, but that seems hardly practical.
@Gutengel- https://www.amazon.com/TECKIN-Multiple-Outlet-Protector-Compatible/dp/B07FM3P87S/ref=sr_1_6?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1544183118&sr=1-6&keywords=Smart+Outlet