IFA 2024: Matter updates also part of huge launch event over in Berlin
Aqara has taken the covers off an absolute plethora of new tech over in Berlin at IFA 2024; the most notable of which is the outdoor-focused Camera Hub G5 Pro.
Like Aqara cameras in the past that have the word ‘Hub’ in their names – such as the Aqara Camera Hub G2H Pro or the Aqara Camera Hub G3 – the G5 Pro doubles up as both smart security camera and a smart home hub.
For Aqara users, that means a new hub to connect their Zigbee Aqara child devices to, such as motion sensors, smart locks and more.
And, because the Aqara Camera Hub G5 Pro is designed to live outdoors, it provides an easier way to get outdoor-based devices synced up and playing nicely within an Aqara smart home system.
Unlike the recently launched Aqara Hub M3 though, there are no Matter controller skills on board, although the G5 Pro can act as a Matter bridge to bring non-Matter smart home devices into the mix.
Available in both PoE and Wi-Fi models, the G5 Pro sounds like a pretty competent outdoor security camera, with 1520p visuals, color night vision, a 133 degree field of view, and AI smart detection on board.
There’s local storage options for your footage on offer through the onboard eMMC memory, or via a connected NAS drive.
The G5 Pro is also an Apple HomeKit Secure Video certified camera too, and it can also be synced with Amazon Alexa and Google Home.
Also on show over in Berlin was the new Aqara Garage Door Controller T2 Kit. Capable of operating two different garage doors, it needs an Aqara Hub to operate.
As does the new Aqara Valve Controller T1, which is compatible with lever and butterfly handle valves on DN15, DN20 and DN25 pipes. No modification to the existing pipe or rewiring is required, it should be easy work for basic DIY-ers.
Exciting launches for the EU market are the new Aqara H2 switch line-up – light, dimmer and shutter – all of which can operate natively with Matter as they operate over both Thread and Zigbee.
Opt for the latter, and you’ll get extra bells and whistles in the Aqara app, such as energy monitoring.
Also with Matter in mind, and with Thread built in, is a new Aqara LED Bulb T2, which comes in various configurations including E26, E27 and GU10 fittings.
Aqara also used IFA to unveil a new partnership with Tesla, allowing Muskmobiles to live inside an Aqara system, and be part of automations.
There was also word of a new Works with Home Assistant Partnership and even a new Aqara voice assistant – Voice Mate H1 – which will be built into a new battery powered device that works with the Hub M3.
Pricing and availability for all the new kit is yet to be confirmed, but we’ll let you know as soon as we do.
