Skip to main content

Set yourself ABB-free with merged smart home, security, and entertainment system

Switzerland-based ABB launched a new smart home control platform at the 2018 CEDIA Expo in San Diego this week. The company promises the somewhat awkwardly named ABB-free@home will integrate major home systems with an intuitive all-in-one user interface.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

The new smart home automation solution operates via Wi-Fi to merge controls for climate, lighting, communications, security, and entertainment in an open platform that accommodates established players in their respective fields. For example, the Swiss product claims compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Sonos, and Signify’s Philips Hue.

Recommended Videos

According to the company, customers can utilize the Alexa voice assistant to talk to the smart home system to manage climate control and home lighting. Users will be able to configure and control their installed Sonos speakers from the platform app on computers, smartphones or tablets or via in-wall keypads and proprietary touchpad.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

The company’s products include intelligent light switches, window blind switches, door communications products, and thermostats, all of which incorporate mesh network technology to expand network coverage throughout the house.

01 - What is ABB-free@home

Fully configured systems can be set up and activated via the platform app running on a tablet or laptop computer, according to the company.  Once configured, setting changes are easily made with the app on any supported mobile platform or desktop.

Please enable Javascript to view this content

Similar to driver memory settings in a car, customers can configure multiple settings within the platform for various times of day, functions, or even mood. All you need to do is press one button on a switch or in the app to switch settings, which can include lighting scenes, temperature, blinds, and even music. There’s also a preprogrammed “everything off” switch, so all devices on the Wi-Fi network are turned off at the same time.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

“Our goal is to make people’s lives easier, safer, more comfortable, and enjoyable through the application of smart home solutions. This momentous launch in the U.S. represents a significant step forward in achieving that,” said Franklin Sullivan, ABB Electrification Products U.S. lead division manager.

The newcomer to smart home systems historically supplies electrical and mechanical systems to industrial and commercial customers, including control systems and robotics. This step into the consumer market marks an additional market venture, so integrating with existing smart home brand leaders was a given.

Bruce Brown
Bruce Brown Contributing Editor   As a Contributing Editor to the Auto teams at Digital Trends and TheManual.com, Bruce…
Apple gearing up for ‘first foray into smart home camera market’
Apple Fifth Avenue Store Apple Logo

Apple is planning to release a smart home security camera in 2026, according to Ming-Chi Kuo, a prominent figure with contacts in Apple’s supply chain in Asia.

“Apple is making its first foray into the smart home IP camera market, with mass production scheduled for 2026, targeting annual shipments in the tens of millions,” Kuo wrote in an online post shared on Monday, adding that Chinese tech firm GoerTek will be the exclusive assembly supplier.

Read more
This tiny smart puck can control your smart home without the need for mobile apps
The Linxura with four buttons on the screen.

My home is overrun with smart gadgets, and the main way I interact with them is through my smartphone. This is usually a robust way to control my gadgets, as my phone is never far from my side -- whether I need to toggle my smart lights, adjust my air purifier, or change the thermostat, my smartphone lets me tackle most of these tasks in a matter of seconds. However, having a physical button to perform these actions would certainly be preferred. Instead of diving into apps and wading through menus and automations, a physical controller would perform actions at the press of a button, much like a remote works for a TV.

That’s the idea behind the Linxura Smart Controller -- a disc-shaped object that lets you perform a long list of actions at the press of a button. After syncing it with your smart devices, you’ll no longer need your companion mobile apps. Just tap or double-tap its outer ring, and you can toggle hundreds of different products. I’ve been testing it out in my home, and while I think it’s a fun device, it falls short in a few areas. But if you’re craving a physical remote for your smart home, there’s good reason to take a closer look at the innovative gadget.
Simple, but tedious setup

Read more
Now is the perfect time to upgrade to smart water leak detectors
The D-Link Wi-Fi Water Leak Sensor and Alarm.

The winter months are just around the corner, with most of the country finally starting to experience cooler weather. And while the winter brings plenty of holiday cheer (not to mention the opening of ski resorts), it also brings about frozen pipes and water leaks. That makes this the perfect time to add smart water leak detectors to your home -- or to upgrade your old models to something more robust.
Why should you install smart water leak detectors?

Winter is the worst time of year for water pipes. Cold weather can cause them to freeze, then as the weather warms, they can burst and start leaking. And if you don’t have a water leak detector in your home, a small leak could turn into a serious problem.

Read more