NAPERVILLE, IL--(Marketwired - Nov 12, 2014) - A new connected outlet that integrates with Apple HomeKit is now available for pre-order from Grid Connect. The ConnectSense Smart Outlet features two Internet-connected electrical sockets that enable users to control devices plugged into them using an iPhone app, other Apple HomeKit-enabled devices or by voice command via Siri.
The Smart Outlet plugs into any standard North American electrical outlet, and enables users to automate their home easily by setting up rules, notifications and schedules.
The Smart Outlet gives users greater command over their environment by allowing them to control and monitor just about any device that plugs in, including lights, heat, fans, air conditioners, televisions, coffee machines, dishwashers, ovens, washing machines/dryers and many other household devices. For example, parents can make TV viewing or video games off limits until a specified time; homeowners can program the house lights to turn on when the garage door opens; and the washer and dryer can notify homeowners when laundry is complete.
Integration with Apple's new HomeKit standard, which was released in iOS8, provides quick and powerful access to control smart outlets anywhere in the home via Siri. This allows for control over groups of devices, such as all lights, all-off capabilities and the ability to check the status of items in your home (for example, "Did I leave my iron on?"). In addition, this allows for interoperability with HomeKit-enabled products from many different manufacturers.
The ConnectSense Smart Outlet is the first device to include both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), which allows the Smart Outlet to communicate with other smart devices and battery-powered sensors. Other features that make the Smart Outlet unique include:
- Easy Wi-Fi set up and simple programming of rules and notifications.
- Dual electrical sockets so users can make the most of their available outlets.
- Apple HomeKit integration so users can control all their smart devices regardless of manufacturer and make them work together, including smart locks, smart lights, smart garage door openers and other best-in-class home automation devices with support for Apple's HomeKit protocol.
- USB charging port that supports rapid charging for the new iPhones and iPads, while freeing up an outlet and eliminating the need for users to purchase multiple chargers.
The ConnectSense Smart Outlet is available now for pre-order at www.connectsense.com/preorder, and will ship in the first quarter of 2015. Priced at $79.95, the ConnectSense Smart Outlet offers tremendous value compared to other smart plugs because it includes a dual plug, a USB charger outlet, access to Apple HomeKit and Bluetooth low energy to communicate with other sensors. By comparison, the cost of two smart plugs from competitors, as well as an additional iPhone 6/6+ charger, would easily cost $130 or more.
The ConnectSense Smart Outlet will be showcased at CES 2015, Booth 75626 in the Eureka Park area, January 6-9 in Las Vegas.
Grid Connect plans to enable the BLE functionality in all Smart Outlets later in 2015, which allows users to add additional BLE-only ConnectSense Smart Outlets to their homes at a lower price. These BLE-only Smart Outlets will use the original Wi-Fi outlet as a functional gateway to connect to the Internet. Grid Connect also plans to roll out additional BLE smart sensors to monitor temperature, water and doors/windows. Support for Android is also planned for 2015.
About GridConnect
Grid Connect (www.GridConnect.com), an ISO 9001:2008 company, is a leading manufacturer and distributor of products that enable the Internet of Things, including the ConnectSense line of wireless sensors. Grid Connect can be found on Twitter @GridConnect and on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/grid-connect. ConnectSense can be found at www.ConnectSense.com and on Twitter @connectsense.
Contact Information:
For information contact:
Linda Muskin
847-432-7300
Mara Conklin
678-825-2000
