Thread-enabled door and window sensor launches HomeKit automations

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The Onvis CT3 contact sensor works exclusively with HomeKit, Siri and the Home app.
The Onvis CT3 contact sensor works exclusively with HomeKit, Siri and the Home app.
Photo: Onvis

Onvis updated its formerly Bluetooth-only CT3 contact sensor with the Thread wireless protocol. That means it should work smoothly with HomeKit and Siri. It won’t just let you know when doors or windows open or close, it will launch related automations.

This is especially good news if you want to jack up home security by automatically tripping alarms or turning on lights when a door or window opens.

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Onvis CT3 Thread-Enabled HomeKit Door Window Contact Sensor

The updated Onvis CT3 contact sensor is more useful with Thread support. That’s because it can quickly and efficiently communicate with other Thread-enabled devices, especially as the new Matter home automation protocol gains traction.

Instead of just letting you know via the Onvis app that a door or window opened, now you can use the CT3 to set a Home app automation to go along with it. For example, if a door opens after dark, certain lights always turn on after a particular time.

With Thread support, alerts you receive should be speedier and more reliable, as well. And this device is a bit unusual because it works exclusively with the Home app, not with Google Assistant, Android or Alexa.

Another update is coming: Onvis SMS2 sensor

While the CT3 update makes that sensor the company’s first to have Thread support, a whole new sensor is also coming, according to HomeKit News & Reviews.

The SMS2 sensor will have temperature and humidity sensors and Thread support along with an ambient light sensor and motion-sensor options you can adjust. Launch is expected in March at a similar price to the CT3.

The Onvis CT3 contact sensor costs $29.99 or $45.99 for a two-pack.

Where to buy: Amazon

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