There are quite a few wall switches that support Apple’s HomeKit home-automation system, but Aqara on Tuesday unveiled two that should catch the eye of anyone with an older home. Unlike virtually all competitors, these don’t require a neutral wire, something that exists primarily in newer buildings.
These switches make any ceiling fixture smart. They can be controlled via an iPhone or Siri commands from anywhere.
This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.
Switch to HomeKit
Aqara plans two versions of its HomeKit light switch. A single-rocker one costs $39.99, while a double-rocker version is $44.99.
And there’s an extra complication. These accessories require a Aqara Hub ($59.99) to function. That’s in addition to the hub required by HomeKit itself.
Both Aqara switches are scheduled to debut May 20, 2020.
Other HomeKit accessories from Aqara
This company also began offering a range of other home-automation products with HomeKit support. That includes a simple Smart Plug to automate a range of electrical appliances. And a Wireless Mini Switch can be placed anywhere to control snare home devices.
Plus, there’s a motion sensor ($22.99), a door-and-window sensor ($16.99) and a vibration sensor ($19.99). With HomeKit, the functionality of all these products can be combined to, for example, turn on the lights in a room when a sensor is triggered.
Light the wall switches, these other HomeKit accessories require an Aqara hub to work. This can control up to 32 other Aqara devices.
