Jan 6 2015
Today, at the Samsung Electronics Keynote at CES 2015, SmartThings announced the next generation of its products, including a new Hub and sensors, further integrations with third party devices, and a new premium subscription service.
The new SmartThings Hub adds a number of features aimed at providing users with greater peace of mind, flexibility, and control. The new Hub includes a more powerful processor and local app engine, built-in backup battery power, and expanded cellular connectivity options which enable SmartThings to keep operating in the event of a power or Internet outage. The new Hub also expands connectivity options to include additional protocols such as Bluetooth Smart, providing users with the widest range of devices supported by any smart home platform.
SmartThings device integrations continue to rapidly evolve, providing the best range of choice and control for users. Alongside the new Hub, SmartThings is rolling out new ‘micro’ versions of its core sensors, which are one third the size of its first generation devices. Examples of new third party integrations with the next generation platform include Netgear cameras, Philips Hue, Honeywell thermostats, Chamberlain garage door openers, August locks, and all Samsung smart appliances. SmartThings is also expanding the number of ways that users can connect with and control their homes, with demonstrations of new apps for the Gear S and Samsung Smart TVs.
Coupled with the new Hub, SmartThings is also launching a first-of-its kind premium subscription service, bringing users the option of advanced home monitoring capabilities. This new service enables SmartThings to automatically send users or other designated contacts a text or call when a problem is detected within the home that requires immediate attention, such as a flood or fire. The premium service also includes built-in DVR services for cameras.
“Since SmartThings was acquired by Samsung this past August our platform has seen tremendous growth and innovation. The number of apps and devices created by our community has doubled to more than 10,000 developers and over one million apps installed,” said Alex Hawkinson, CEO and founder of SmartThings. “This growth is a testament to the power of openness and we’re excited to bring our users the next generation of our platform for enhanced peace of mind, savings, and convenience.”
All of this and more will be at the SmartThings Smart Home within the Samsung booth at LVCC (Booth #11906 in Central Hall) where there will be live demonstrations of how to control, monitor, and automate a smart home with these new devices, integrations, and services.
The new SmartThings Hub, sensors, and premium subscription service will be available for purchase nationwide in the U.S. and Canada in April 2015.
Source: http://www.smartthings.com/