The world of smart home technology is constantly evolving, with companies like Nanoleaf leading the way in innovation. After nearly a decade of development, Nanoleaf has unveiled its latest product – the Sense Plus Smart Wireless Switch. This device promises to revolutionize the way we interact with our smart lighting systems.
Nanoleaf’s Sense Plus Switch represents a significant advancement in smart switch technology. Unlike traditional switches, this device is battery-powered and features built-in motion and light sensors. This means that users can control their lighting with the press of a button, without the need for voice commands or a smartphone. The Sense Plus Switch can be mounted on a wall like a traditional switch, or used as a portable remote, offering users flexibility in how they interact with their lighting system.
A key feature of the Sense Plus Switch is its use of Litewave, a proprietary protocol developed by Nanoleaf. Litewave allows the switch to communicate with all Nanoleaf lights, regardless of whether they use Thread, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. This ensures a seamless and reliable connection between the switch and the lights, with instantaneous control as fast as flipping a light switch. Litewave also simplifies the setup process for users, as it does not require additional devices such as a Thread border router or Matter controller.
Nanoleaf’s journey to develop the Sense Plus Switch was not without its challenges. The company initially adopted Thread as its communication protocol but later pivoted to develop Litewave due to difficulties with Matter over Thread implementation. According to Nanoleaf co-founder Gimmy Chu, the complex nature of Matter and its multiple platforms posed challenges in ensuring a reliable wireless switch experience. Litewave was developed to provide a robust and reliable local connection, allowing the Sense Plus Switch to work seamlessly with all Nanoleaf lights.
Matter over Wi-Fi
In addition to the Sense Plus Switch, Nanoleaf has also introduced its first Matter over Wi-Fi light bulb, the Essentials Matter Wi-Fi A19 Smart Bulb. This move away from Thread to Wi-Fi technology is aimed at catering to a broader audience, especially in mass-market retail channels like Walmart. By offering a Wi-Fi compatible bulb, Nanoleaf is ensuring that its products are accessible to a wider range of consumers who may not be familiar with Thread technology.
Nanoleaf is not alone in its adoption of Matter over Thread technology. Other companies, such as Aqara, are also exploring the use of both Thread and Zigbee protocols to provide users with more options and features. As the smart home industry continues to evolve, manufacturers are looking for alternative solutions to ensure compatibility and seamless connectivity for their products.
The launch of Nanoleaf’s Sense Plus Switch and Essentials Matter Wi-Fi Bulb mark a significant milestone in the development of smart home technology. With the introduction of Litewave protocol and a shift towards Matter over Wi-Fi, Nanoleaf is addressing the evolving needs of consumers and ensuring that its products remain at the forefront of innovation. As the industry continues to mature, it is clear that companies like Nanoleaf will play a crucial role in shaping the future of smart home technology.