Ikea's HomeKit-compatible Smart Shades come to the US on Apr. 1

Revealed earlier this week during CES 2019, Ikea's low-cost Smart Shades now have a precise U.S. launch date, Apr. 1.

The only model available will be the opaque Fyrtur, an Ikea spokeswoman informed Fast Company. The translucent Kadrilj model won't be coming to the U.S., even though both lines are already out in Europe.

European prices range from 99 to 155 euros, or about $113 to $181. Available dimensions run from 60-by-195 centimeters (23.6-by-76.8 inches) to 140-by-195 centimeters (55.1-by-76.8 inches).

Very few HomeKit-compatible shades are on the market, typically because of factors like custom sizing and elaborate electronics, which can also push prices out of the average person's range. Ikea's product gets around these issues with a limited selection of sizes, and a rechargeable battery that has to be periodically removed. People will be able to buy extra battery packs to minimize downtime.

The blinds also require buying Ikea's Tradfri hub for smarthome functions. Aside from HomeKit, the hub works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and an Ikea app.

The Swedish retailer offers a collection of Tradfri-enabled accessories, including plugs, lights, and motion sensors.

15 Comments

ihatescreennames 1971 comments · 19 Years

About 5 years ago

AppleInsider said:

European prices range from 99 to 155 euros, or about $113 to $181. Available dimensions run from 60-by-195 centimeters (23.6-by-76.8 inches) to 140-by-195 centimeters (55.1-by-76.8 inches).

Very few HomeKit-compatible shades are on the market, typically because of factors like custom sizing and elaborate electronics, which can also push prices out of the average person's range.

I've been looking for some HomeKit-compatible shades for a while. I would like some for the tiny windows in our basement. I checked out Serena, for the size we need (about 2'x1') the cost was about $450 a piece for the battery operated variety. That price is just too high for such a small shade, especially considering the costs on the much larger (though not automated) shades/blinds/curtains we have on, say, our 8' sliding door, for instance. I haven't used any of the Tradfri stuff and have seen mixed reviews. It's marginally disappointing Ikea's sizing is not in line with my current needs.

Edit: thinking about it more, it would be nice if someone came out with just the mounting kit that would allow the HomeKit integration. We don't need to replace our shades but maybe they could be swapped into a motorized and HomeKit ready chassis. That would be nice.

22july2013 3725 comments · 11 Years

About 5 years ago

My current shades have a thin aluminum later to create 100% opaqueness. Those don't look opaque to me. They seem to be bleeding skylight, especially on the left where the sky is behind them. But it's hard to be sure. They might just be reflecting internal light, which is fine.

macmarcus 84 comments · 15 Years

About 5 years ago

ihatescreennames said:

It's marginally disappointing Ikea's sizing is not in line with my current needs.

Aren't they the cut to custom width type of blinds? On an inside mount that would be important, on an outside mount not so much.

AppleExposed 1805 comments · 6 Years

About 5 years ago

If Apple even acquired a Homekit company it would be IKEA.

When will Apple change the name to simply "Home"?

gutengel 363 comments · 7 Years

About 5 years ago

Can you guys do a review of Ikea Homekit products? The existing one are pretty old and overall negative. I'd be interested to see if they improve with new updates or version of the products.