Nanoleaf has finally introduced its long-awaited smart switch, the Sense Plus Smart Wireless “Anywhere” Switch. Priced at $30, this battery-powered gadget is poised to bring physical control to Nanoleaf’s smart lighting system. With the ability to turn lights on or off, dim or brighten, and change colors with the push of a button, the Sense also includes built-in motion and light sensors to adjust lighting based on room conditions.
Unlike some of its predecessors, the Sense features two configurable buttons that can be programmed using Nanoleaf’s app or integrated with Apple Home and Samsung SmartThings through Matter. This opens up a world of possibilities for users, allowing them to create personalized scenes and automations to enhance their smart home experience. However, due to the limited support for smart buttons on Matter platforms, the Sense’s Matter integration is currently part of an early access program.
One of the standout features of the Sense is its use of two protocols simultaneously to communicate with Nanoleaf’s lights. By combining Matter over Thread with Litewave, a proprietary protocol developed specifically for this product, Nanoleaf has ensured seamless connectivity across all its smart lighting devices, regardless of whether they use Thread, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi.
Nanoleaf’s journey to developing a reliable wireless switch has been an arduous one, lasting eight years. Despite its initial enthusiasm for Thread, the company encountered challenges with its Matter over Thread implementation. To address these issues, Nanoleaf created Litewave, a robust and reliable local connection that allows for instantaneous control of multiple lights without the “popcorn effect” of delayed responses.
In a surprising move, Nanoleaf has also unveiled its first Matter over Wi-Fi light bulb, marking a departure from its previous reliance on Thread. Priced at $29.99 for a two-pack, the Essentials Matter Wi-Fi A19 Smart Bulb is aimed at a broader audience, particularly consumers who may not be familiar with Thread. This strategic shift underscores Nanoleaf’s commitment to reaching a wider market and ensuring compatibility with a variety of platforms.
Nanoleaf’s adoption of Litewave and expansion into Matter over Wi-Fi reflect broader industry trends towards interoperability and user-friendly smart home solutions. As more manufacturers navigate the complexities of current protocols like Thread and Zigbee, the emergence of Matter promises to streamline device integration and enhance feature parity. While challenges persist, companies like Nanoleaf are paving the way for a more seamless and intuitive smart home ecosystem.
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