While waiting for the Apple Keynote and its many announcements that will still make a lot of noise, let's take a look at some HomeKit accessories. Aqara has just unveiled several products that work in Zigbee and are directly compatible with Apple HomeKit.
HomeKit certified smart home products actually work in Bluetooth and can be controlled directly from an iPhone, iPad or Apple TV. For remote access, you need an Apple TV or iPad that stays at home: they will act as a gateway to the outside world.
Aqara is one of the biggest developers in the field and adds several HomeKit accessories to its smart home porfolio:
Aqara Smoke Detector - A smart smoke alarm, developed with Honeywell, constant self-test and status display on your smartphone
Aqara door and window sensor - A must-have home security sensor, invisible in the window frame, to know if the window is open and to be warned remotely
Aqara door lock S2 - smart lock that protects your house with high tech. It's recently compatible with Apple HomeKit.
Many smart home products are in addition to the small number of other HomeKit accessories already available from Aqara such as smart plugs, temperature sensors or motion sensors. It is already enough to build a connected home. To be almost complete, the Aqara range is currently essentially missing a HomeKit camera.
The smart Fresh Square indoor garden allows everyone to grow herbs and vegetables at home. To use it, you don't need any experience, or even a green thumb. The entire process is automated and simplified as much as possible thanks to the Internet of Things.
The creators of Fresh Square are determined to initiate a return to nature in major cities. They want to offer citizens the opportunity to produce their own food in a healthy and environmentally responsible way. That's why this young French startup decided to launch itself.
This piece of furniture has an elegant and pleasant design, both modern and authentic, thanks to the use of white metal and wood. It allows you to grow up to 12 plants simultaneously, and watch them grow from the comfort of your sofa. Up to 4 fresh squares can be combined horizontally or vertically to grow up to 48 plants simultaneously.
A natural and organic soil
Fresh Square stands out from other gardens connected by the use of organic fertilizers such as compost. Thus, the roots of plants benefit from microorganisms that give fruits and vegetables a delicious taste and a richness in vitamins.
With the partnership of the University of Liège, an intelligent soil has been developed from natural ingredients and organic waste. The nutrients necessary for the specific needs of each plant are gradually released to nourish the plants in an optimal way.
Automated watering and lighting
To ensure optimal growth, lighting is provided by low-power LEDs that simulate the sun's cycle. These lamps automatically switch off during the night. The user therefore does not need to switch on a switch.
For irrigation, the water tank can hold enough liquid for three weeks. The compost is gradually hydrated to remain permanently moist. This system saves 80% water compared to an outdoor cultivation.
The Fresh Square companion application provides accurate and detailed information on each plant variety, their needs and growing secrets. Many cooking recipes also allow you to enjoy your crops while enjoying them, and a social feature allows you to share tips and photos with other users.
Fresh Square pricing and availability
Currently in the middle of a participative fundraising campaign on Kickstarter, the Fresh Square project can be supported from 5€. The Early Bird Mega pack allows you to receive this connected indoor garden for 169€, instead of the final price of 340€.