Category: Spotlight

Q&A: SmartThings and Loop on the Road to a Sustainable Future

With the rise in extreme weather events, increasing droughts, inflation, and energy prices going through the roof, people are more concerned than ever with their carbon footprint’s impact on the world—and their utility bills.

Head of SmartThings, Mark Benson said it best: “Sustainability is at the core of everything we do.” SmartThings is always building and partnering with innovative, user-centric solutions for a more sustainable future. This commitment is exemplified through SmartThings Energy, a comprehensive energy management solution in the SmartThings app, and our recent partnership with Loop Global.

Loop is the first Electric Vehicle (EV) charging company within the SmartThings network. Now, users can control Loop’s advanced, user-friendly EV chargers conveniently and sustainably.

In our latest X (Twitter) Q&A, we chatted with Loop Global to discuss our partnership, how their products work with SmartThings, and more. Browse the highlights below or keep reading for the full conversation.

The Highlights

SmartThings: What makes Loop and your chargers different?

Loop: Here at Loop, we are building the next-generation energy network. Our goal is to become a global leader in the electrification of transportation by bringing to market a suite of smart, simple, and affordable electric vehicle charging solutions for everywhere drivers go, whether at home, at work, or on the go. 

Loop: For new or existing SmartThings users, how do you go about setting up Loop chargers in the app?

SmartThings: Getting set up is simple! Download the SmartThings app on your phone, click “Connect” and search for devices. You can then establish routines, or customize existing routines, to get the most out of your smart home.

SmartThings: Sustainability is hugely important to us and our SmartThings Energy initiative. We know it is just as important to you. Tell us more about your sustainability efforts. How can smart charging solutions contribute to energy efficiency and sustainability?

Loop: With Samsung and SmartThings integrations, Electric Vehicle (EV) drivers can set up optimal charging schedules from their car, their office, or anywhere they have service with their mobile phone. This lets drivers start charging when the cost of energy is the lowest, and it helps reduce load on the energy grid. Not only does this help the environment, but it also helps the driver’s bottom line! 

Our full conversation with Loop

SmartThings: We’ve got some burning questions for you! First up, what makes Loop and your chargers different?

Loop: Thanks for having us. Here at Loop, we are building the next-generation energy network. Our goal is to become a global leader in the electrification of transportation by bringing to market a suite of smart, simple, and affordable electric vehicle charging solutions for everywhere drivers go, whether at home, at work, or on the go. 

SmartThings: Thanks for that introduction. Which of your products works with SmartThings?

Loop: Nearly all of our Level 2 charging solutions are compatible with SmartThings. Our EV-Flex Lite is our most popular at-home option, but we also provide our cellular-enabled EV-Flex and our new EV-Flex Plus, featuring 40 amp charging capacity.

For new or existing SmartThings users, how do you go about setting up Loop chargers in the app?

SmartThings: Getting set up is simple! Download the SmartThings app on your phone, click “Connect” and search for devices. You can then establish routines, or customize existing routines, to get the most out of your smart home.

Loop: That’s great! And will this process work for all of our products?

SmartThings: Yes! The process to set up any Loop products is the same. We love making things easy!

Loop: Easy is best! So, how do Loop products work with other smart home devices within the SmartThings app?

SmartThings: Our goal is that everything works together seamlessly so you can get the most out of our app and the SmartThings experience. Once you are connected, you can control all Loop products from your smart devices. 

On that note, is there a limit to the number of chargers that can be connected to the SmartThings app?

Loop: Nope! Once connected to the app, Loop will find all home chargers and automatically populate them within SmartThings! 

SmartThings: Sustainability is hugely important to us and our SmartThingsEnergy initiative. We know it is just as important to you. Tell us more about your sustainability efforts. How can smart charging solutions contribute to energy efficiency and sustainability?

Loop: With Samsung and SmartThings integrations, Electric Vehicle (EV) drivers can set up optimal charging schedules from their car, their office, or anywhere they have service with their mobile phone. This lets drivers start charging when the cost of energy is the lowest, and it helps reduce load on the energy grid. Not only does this help the environment, it also helps the driver’s bottom line! 

Switching gears, let’s talk about trends. What are some emerging trends in the evolution of smart homes?

SmartThings: We see the future of smart homes and smart products evolving with more powerful automations that simply just work and smart home technology as a way to uplift your everyday living and meaningful moments. The next 5-10 years will mean working with partners, like Loop, to streamline and advance the future of smart living.

So, where can SmartThings users learn more about Loop and your products? 

Loop: Our blog is the best place to learn more about our products and what’s next. Visit https://blog.loopglobal.com/ or send us a DM with any questions! 

Last question from us! Where can EV drivers learn more about SmartThings and how to integrate our chargers? 

SmartThings: Make sure you are following SmartThings on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram or you can learn more about our partners on our website: partners.smartthings.com.

Huge thank you to our partners at Loop Global for joining us today! If you have any questions on how Loop Works With SmartThings, reach out!

Loop: Thank you, SmartThings! 
Visit partners.smartthings.com for more about Loop Global and additional partners, products, and services.

Q&A: SmartThings and TP-Link UK on How To Simplify Your Connected Life​

Picture this: You slept through your alarm, and now you have to get ready for work in a rush. Quickly, you put on a pot of coffee, iron your clothes, throw everything you need in a bag, and head to the office. Phew, you’re still going to be on time. But wait! Did you unplug the coffee pot? The iron? Turn off all the lights? 

You break out into a cold sweat—but then you remember all your appliances are plugged into the SmartThings-compatible TP-Link Smart Plug, and you breathe a sigh of relief, open the SmartThings app, and turn off anything you left on with a simple tap.

That’s only the beginning of how TP-Link works with SmartThings. A leading global provider of Wi-Fi devices and more, TP-Link offers the Matter-certified Tapo smart plug, allowing users to control their appliances conveniently, sustainably, and safely. 

In our latest X (Twitter) Q&A, we chatted with TP-Link UK to discuss our partnership, how their products work with SmartThings, and more. Browse the highlights below, or keep reading for the full conversation. 

The Highlights

SmartThings: How does your smart plug work with SmartThings?

TP-Link UK: SmartHome owners can connect their appliances to the Tapo smart plug. They don’t even have to be smart appliances! For example, you can control the lights on your Christmas tree this holiday! 

Then, in the SmartThings app, users can go into SmartThings Energy to track the energy use of these devices and see electricity bill estimates. No more surprises! 

TP-Link UK: Safety is another major concern for users today. How does SmartThings ensure our users avoid the risks that come with everyday appliances?

SmartThings: Who hasn’t asked themselves halfway to work, “Did I unplug the iron?” The SmartThings app puts your mind at ease. Simply preset a schedule to auto-manage your devices so they turn off after it’s left on for a set time. 

SmartThings: We’d love to know where TP-LINK sees the smart home space heading in the next 5-10 years. 

TP-Link UK: We see the future of smart homes as smart and non-smart products all working together seamlessly, no matter who makes them! 

Our full conversation with TP-Link UK

SmartThings: We’ve got some burning questions for you! First up, what makes TP-Link different?

TP-Link UK: Thanks for having us. We are the world’s number 1 provider of Wi-Fi devices to consumers across the globe. The user experience drives everything we do, so we design and build all our networking devices in-house.

We’re excited to say that our Tapo smart plug now works with SmartThings Energy! 

SmartThings: We’re thrilled to partner with you! How does your smart plug work with SmartThings?

TP-Link UK: SmartHome owners can connect their appliances to the Tapo smart plug. They don’t even have to be smart appliances! For example, you can control the lights on your Christmas tree this holiday! 

Then, in the SmartThings app, users can go into SmartThings Energy to track the energy use of these devices and see electricity bill estimates. No more surprises! 

TP-Link UK: Beyond access to the game-changing SmartThings Energy, what are the other benefits of using the Tapo smart plug with the SmartThings app? 

SmartThings: Energy bill surprises are the worst! The SmartThings app lets you turn your plugged-in appliances on and off wherever you are. That way, you only use the devices you need when you need them! Goodbye, wasted energy. 

SmartThings: Let’s talk about another matter…Matter! How does TP-Link work with Matter-certified devices, and why is that important?

TP-Link UK: TP-Link’s Tapo Mini Smart Wi-Fi Plug is our first Matter-certified product available to customers today, with more to come! The Tapo smart plug will work seamlessly with other Matter devices, such as the SmartThings Station, Samsung Family Hub Fridge, and smart TVs, and setting it up is a breeze! Here’s how: You scan a provided QR code with your phone, and the plug will immediately configure to your home network. Smart living should be easy!

TP-Link UK: We’ve covered sustainability and convenience. Safety is another major concern for users today. How does SmartThings ensure our users avoid the risks that come with everyday appliances?

SmartThings: Who hasn’t asked themselves halfway to work, “Did I unplug the iron?” The SmartThings app puts your mind at ease. Simply preset a schedule to auto-manage your devices so they turn off after it’s left on for a set time. 

SmartThings: This was so fun! But before we wrap, we’d love to know where TP-LINK sees the smart home space heading in the next 5-10 years. 

TP-Link UK: Yes! We see the future of smart homes as smart and non-smart products all working together seamlessly, no matter who makes them! 

SmartThings: A huge thank you to our partners at TP-LINK UK for chatting with us today! 

TP-Link UK: Thank you for having us SmartThings! On that note, we wanted to give your followers a limited-time offer on our Tapo smart plug for SmartThings users! Get an exclusive 5-pack bundle today: https://tplink.aod.promo/uk/tplink-samsung-dec23

Learn more about TP-Link’s smart home brand, Tapo, here: https://www.smartthings.com/partners/tapo

Homeowner Sustainability Gets Powered Up With Loop EV Chargers, Joining “Works With SmartThings” Ecosystem

With the rapid surge in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, we’re excited that Loop Global, a leading provider of EV chargers, is now available via the SmartThings app, allowing homeowners to seamlessly integrate Loop chargers within the SmartThings ecosystem.

With this integration, homeowners gain the ability to effortlessly control their Loop chargers, such as the EV-FlexTM, through the SmartThings app or voice commands. This empowers users to start/stop and monitor charge sessions, view their charging history, and track energy consumption. The result is a more comprehensive home energy profile that not only supports sustainable living but also provides valuable insights into energy usage patterns.

Loop stands out as the first EV charging company within the SmartThings network, reflecting both company’s commitments to quality, user satisfaction, and innovation.

Loop and SmartThings continue to lead the way in driving innovative, user-centric solutions for a more sustainable future. Thanks to SmartThings Energy, a comprehensive energy management solution within the SmartThings app, users can connect their EV chargers to make smarter energy decisions that could reduce their carbon footprint. 

At the same time, Loop is dedicated to providing homeowners with the most advanced and user-friendly charging solutions, furthering its vision of a superior charging experience for the sustainable future of transportation.

This partnership amplifies the accessibility and convenience of Loop chargers, while also highlighting SmartThings’ commitment to sustainable partnerships, setting new benchmarks in quality and user satisfaction.

For more about Loop Global and Works With SmartThings (WWST) certified products, please visit https://www.smartthings.com/supported-devices

For more information on Loop EV charging solutions please visit loopglobal.com

Do the SmartThings with Son Heung-min

At SmartThings, we believe in living a connected, simple, and efficient life—and we’re not alone. Just ask global soccer star Son Heung-min! From entertainment to exercise, Son uses SmartThings to simplify his daily routine and enjoy that much-needed “me-time”—all while saving energy. Check out how below.

Learn more at https://www.samsung.com/dothesmartthings/ or try it out for yourself on the SmartThings app. #DoTheSmartThings

Q&A: SmartThings x Eve on Making Connected Living Smart, Safe, and Convenient

Picture this, you’re coming home from a long day at work and the only thing that’ll get your spirit up is sitting down to watch your favorite comfort show. You walk in the door and BOOM, the lights dim, and that Friends episode you love begins to play. It’s truly the perfect start to your wind-down routine. 

The idea isn’t far-fetched. We’ve partnered with Eve to make living easier (and smarter), giving you the tools you need for instant comfort the second you get home. With products like the Eve Door & Window sensor and SmartThings automations, just open the door and watch your connected devices activate. 

We gave attendees a taste of the smart life at our SmartThings Home Tour featuring Eve in May. With the state-of-the-art Smart Home setup on the top floor of the Samsung 837 store, guests were able to see firsthand how Eve products work with SmartThings and connected home devices anywhere—from the kitchen to the living room or bedroom (even the kiddo’s room, too!).

In case you missed it, we collaborated with Eve again in a recent LIVE Twitter Q&A to talk more about our partnership and their smart home initiatives. Check out the highlights and full Q&A below.

The Highlights

SmartThings: We want to know what type of products Eve offers and what makes them a Smart Home game changer. 

Eve: Eve Home builds connected home products such as smart plugs, sensors, and switches that help increase energy efficiency, comfort, and safety. 

SmartThings: Tell us how Eve products work best with your SmartThings devices.

Eve: With a Matter-enabled Eve Door & Window contact sensor, simply open your door and automatically have your connected comforts activated – such as any mood lights connected to an #EveEnergy smart plug and your Samsung TV. Learn more here: https://www.evehome.com/en-us/matter.

Eve: Let’s talk about Eve x Matter connectivity. Originally, the Eve product line was compatible with Apple Home only. Spearheaded two years ago, we started transitioning our low-power product line from Bluetooth to Thread, getting it ready for Matter. And our customers who already have those Thread-enabled devices in their home can upgrade to Matter via a free firmware upgrade. Eve Energy, Eve Motion & Eve Door & Window are the first Matter-certified Eve products, and firmware for many more is underway!

SmartThings: And Matter also makes it easier to connect Eve products with SmartThings and other devices! The integration of Matter allows our partners, along with Samsung’s Galaxy devices, TVs, and Family Hub appliances, to have the most versatile connectivity options through the SmartThings app.

Our full conversation with Eve 

SmartThings: Thank you for joining us, we’ve got some burning questions for you! First up, we want to know what type of products Eve offers and what makes them a Smart Home game changer. 

Eve: Eve Home builds connected home products such as smart plugs, sensors, and switches that help increase energy efficiency, comfort, and safety. 

Did you know that there are tons of benefits to using Eve products with SmartThings? Just connect Eve products to SmartThings to create custom routines catered to YOU! With our Eve Door & Window sensor, simply open your door and automatically have your connected comforts activated. 

SmartThings: Now let’s talk about how you can get your Eve products connected in the SmartThings app! Did you know that you can effortlessly create routines that rely on Eve sensors to notify the user once motion is detected or a door is opened? Or, if you’re all about comfort, turn on a light that is connected to an Eve Energy plug when you enter the house or a room and set the mood. 

Eve: It’s also super easy to get started and pair any Matter-enabled smart device with SmartThings. Simply download SmartThings on your device, make sure your Eve product is switched on, locate the device and connect. You’re all set.

SmartThings: Tell us how Eve products work best with your SmartThings devices.

Eve: With a Matter-enabled Eve Door & Window contact sensor, simply open your door and automatically have your connected comforts activated – such as any mood lights connected to an #EveEnergy smart plug and your Samsung TV. Learn more:  https://www.evehome.com/en-us/matter 

Eve: But now let’s talk about Eve x Matter connectivity. Originally, the Eve product line was compatible with only Apple Home. Spearheaded two years ago, we started transitioning our low-power product line from Bluetooth to Thread, getting it ready for Matter. And our customers who already have those Thread-enabled devices in their homes can upgrade to Matter via a free firmware upgrade. Eve Energy, Eve Motion & Eve Door & Window are the first Matter-certified Eve products, and firmware for many more is underway!

SmartThings: Matter also makes it easier to connect Eve products with SmartThings and other devices! The integration of Matter allows our partners, along with Samsung’s Galaxy devices, TVs, and Family Hub appliances, to have the most versatile connectivity options through the SmartThings app.

SmartThings: Now tell us why privacy is so important to Eve. How are products designed with consumers’ safety and privacy in mind? 

Eve: Yes, let’s talk about it! Your home is your most private space – it’s paramount that we make products that protect it. All data is fully encrypted and only transferred directly between your Eve accessory and Matter controller. Strong encryption verification makes sure that only you hold the key to your home. There is no registration, no tracking, and no Eve cloud.

SmartThings: Amazing. Now, let’s see Eve in action!

Eve: All you have to do is place your smartphone on the SmartThings Station in your bedroom to activate a good night scene: turn on your bedside lamps connected to Eve Energy and switch off all other lights in the house – and while pressing the button on your SmartThings Station, it will turn off your bedroom lights too! 

SmartThings: Before we wrap up, we want to know where SmartThings sees the smart home space heading in the next 5-10 years.

Eve: We see the future of smart home and smart products evolving with more powerful automations that simply just work, without any manual controls needed!

Thanks again Eve for chatting with us. Stay tuned for more Q&As with our partners on Twitter

Q&A: SmartThings and Nanoleaf on How We Keep Smart Homes Simple

The popcorn’s ready, and everyone’s gathered around the TV. It’s movie night, but tonight you’re taking it to the next level. With the tap of a button, your “movie night” routine activates in the SmartThings App, and then the magic happens. The movie starts, and your Nanoleaf Bulbs begin to dim, the Lightstrips mimic the surround sound, and the colors change to match the mood. It’s the perfect backdrop to family fun and a night of immersion.

That’s only the beginning of how Nanoleaf works with SmartThings. Dedicated to transforming home lighting through innovative smart lighting products, Nanoleaf offers a line of Matter-certified Bulbs and Lightstrips compatible with the SmartThings App—making your movie night setup, or any at-home experience, that much better. 

To share more about our partnership—and teach our users about Matter—we hosted a live Twitter Q&A with Nanoleaf’s CEO, Gimmy Chu. Check out the highlights below, or keep reading for the full conversation.

The Highlights

SmartThings: How can you customize your space with Nanoleaf through the SmartThings app? 

Nanoleaf: The SmartThings app lets you easily control your Nanoleaf lights, change their color and even set schedules! For example, you can customize your bedroom lighting by setting a “goodnight” routine, so your lights automatically change to a warm yellow at night to help your mind and body get ready for sleep. 

SmartThings: How does Nanoleaf prioritize sustainability?

Nanoleaf: Nanoleaf’s Essentials products are manufactured using solar energy, and the LED Bulbs help to save over 29,000 gallons of water over a usage span of 10 years.

SmartThings: Where does Nanoleaf see smart home technology heading in the next 5-10 years?

Nanoleaf: The future of the smart home will evolve with more powerful automations that simply work, without any manual controls needed. Nanoleaf’s upcoming Sense+ Controls line creates a hands-free lighting experience with your lights turning on exactly when and how you need them. 

Our full conversation with Nanoleaf

SmartThings: Thank you for joining us. Let’s jump right in. What are Nanoleaf lights and what makes them a Smart Home game changer? 

Nanoleaf: We create smart lighting to customize your space. Our light panels and light bars are completely modular with 16M+ color options, giving you the freedom to personalize your lighting exactly how you want it. We also recently launched our Essentials Matter-certified line of Bulbs and Lightstrips to make smart home controls and automations much more seamless.

SmartThings: How can you customize your space with Nanoleaf through the SmartThings app?

Nanoleaf: The SmartThings app lets you easily control your Nanoleaf lights, change their color and even set schedules! For example, you can customize your bedroom lighting by setting a goodnight “routine,” so your lights automatically change to a warm yellow at night to help your mind and body get ready for sleep. 

Now, we have a question for you. What are some benefits of using Nanoleaf with the SmartThings app?

SmartThings: We want users to connect Nanoleaf to our app to create custom routines catered to them. Looking for that extra layer of security at night? Set your living room lights to turn on at 10pm every night before bedtime to signify someone is home. Convenience and safety matter deeply to us!

Nanoleaf: And you recently unveiled the SmartThings Station! How does this differ from the SmartThings app?

SmartThings: SmartThings Station and the SmartThings app work together to create simple, smart home experiences. SmartThings Station is a hub and fast wireless charger, and the SmartThings app manages and controls your smart devices for seamless everyday living.

SmartThings: Sustainability is hugely important to us and our SmartThings Energy initiative. How is Nanoleaf prioritizing this? 

Nanoleaf: Sustainability is at the core of who we are; we believe this should be a standard for all businesses. Our Essentials products are manufactured using solar energy, and the LED Bulbs help to save over 29,000 gallons of water over a usage span of 10 years.

SmartThings: We completely agree! For those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, activate SmartThings Energy for energy-saving and cost-lowering tips.

Now, let’s chat about Matter! How has Nanoleaf recently made an effort to work with all Matter-certified devices, and why is that so important?

Nanoleaf: Nanoleaf’s new Essentials Matter Bulbs & Lightstrips are the first Matter-certified lighting available to customers today. Building this new foundation with Matter will make smart living easier for users and enable more powerful automations in the future. 

How will SmartThings and Matter, along with Connectivity Standards Alliance, work together to simplify the lives of smart home owners? 

SmartThings: We truly believe Matter is the foundation and future of IoT! With this new standard, Matter-enabled devices will join numerous products and brands already available within our ecosystem, like Nanoleaf, to simplify the smart home. The integration of Matter allows our partners, along with Samsung’s Galaxy devices, TVs and Family Hub appliances, to have the most versatile connectivity options through the SmartThings app. You can learn more about that here: https://smartthings.com/matter

We see smart home technology as a way to uplift your everyday living and meaningful moments. Where do you see the space heading in the next 5-10 years?

Nanoleaf: We agree! The future of the Smart Home will evolve with more powerful automations that simply work, without any manual controls needed. With our upcoming Sense+ Controls line, we envision a hands-free lighting experience with your lights turning on exactly when and how you need them. 

Where does SmartThings see the smart home space heading in the next 5-10 years?

SmartThings: Smart Homes have gone from a niche market to an everyday experience, with most homes having between 5-7 connected devices. It’s so important that these devices connect to one another easily! The next 5-10 years will mean working with Matter partners like Nanoleaf to streamline and advance the future of smart living.

Thanks again, Nanoleaf and Mr. Chu for chatting with us. Stay tuned for more Q&As with our partners on Twitter

SmartThings Partner Spotlight: How Aeotec Keeps Customers Connected

Since 2013, we’ve proudly partnered with Aeotec, the leading maker of high-quality, everyday smart home products. What’s even more exciting is that their products, like the Aeotec Smart Home Hub, are exclusive and compatible with the SmartThings App, and connect to Works with SmartThings-certified devices, including Z-Wave, Zigbee, or Wi-Fi devices. We sat down with Aeotec to discuss how their products work with SmartThings — and how they keep users connected to their homes. Here’s what we learned.

Aeotec Smart Home Hub

First things, first. What do you need in order to set up a smart home with Aeotec and SmartThings?

All you need is the Aeotec Smart Home Hub, which acts as the brain of your smart home, and Aeotec devices such as Actuators – light switches, cameras, smart doorbells, alarm systems, etc. – and Smart Sensors for security, home energy-use monitoring, and more. Simply download the SmartThings app and follow the app’s step-by-step instructions for connecting the device.

That’s great! What are the benefits of using Aeotec and SmartThings?

A solid and reliable smart home! Using the SmartThings app, you can automate and control all of Aeotec’s smart devices and products from hundreds of other brands to build a system that works for you and your needs.

Can Aeotec-connected devices be controlled from anywhere? 

Our app lets you easily control and monitor Aeotec devices no matter where you are. You can also do so with other smart home appliances like Samsung TVs, refrigerators, cooktops, washers and dryers, AC, air purifiers, and more.

What about compatibility? Can you control devices from various manufacturers with SmartThings? 

Yes! The SmartThings app lets you personalize your smart home. For example, you can use Aeotec products with Samsung devices or Z-Wave sensors with Zigbee light bulbs.

Last question. Will the Aeotec Smart Home Hub support Matter in the future?

Yes, the Aeotec Smart Home Hub supports Matter and is certified as a Thread border router. Matter will be the de-facto standard in every home, offering consumers interoperability between devices, flexibility, and more choices when purchasing connected home devices.

Thank you, Aeotec! 

Learn more about how Aeotec works with SmartThings here, and stay tuned for more partner spotlights on our blog and Q&As with our innovative partners on Twitter

Home Control with Google Pixel and Android Wear devices

Samsung SmartThings and Google have teamed up to bring you Home Control with Google Pixel and Android Wear devices! SmartThings is the only complete smart home platform to work with Home Control. Now you can control many of your SmartThings devices with the Google Assistant. Just speak a command to your Pixel phone or Wear device to interact with SmartThings, from dimming the lights in your living room to turning on the porch light.

While voice control using Google Home is fun, the power comes when you’re on the go. Control your home from your wrist or mobile phone wherever you happen to be in the world. Check that things are safe and secure, adjust your lights, change the temperature, or any number of other convenient controls.

Imagine you just received a message that a family member is heading home early, you can just say “Ok Google, set the thermostat to 70.” and make sure they come home to a warm house. If you want to make sure they don’t have to fumble for the lights when they come in just say “Hey Google, turn on all the lights in the living room.”

Ran out the door last minute and not sure if you turned off that one last light? Just ask Google to turn off the lights and enjoy the rest of your day without worrying about it. Perhaps you’re all settled in for the night and you realize the lights downstairs are still on, Google and SmartThings can take care of that, no need to get up!

It’s never been easier to control your smart home than with Google Home Control and SmartThings. It’s in the palm of your hand (or on your wrist!) no matter where you are, and with dozens of SmartThings supported devices you have a wide range of flexibility to grow your smart house.

Turning the light on is simple: just say “Hey Google!”

4th of July Spotlight: The GE Outdoor Power Outlet

ge-outdoor6With the 4th of July weekend just a few days away, we wanted to highlight a device that makes going outside and enjoying backyard BBQs and fireworks a breeze: the GE Outdoor Power Outlet. Part security, part convenience, and part outdoor party-starter, this dark and handsome stallion is a triple threat.

What it Does:
A smart home should extend beyond your front door. That’s where this guy comes in. Perfect for summertime, nighttime, or anytime, this weather-resistant device plugs into any standard outlet and lets you automate and control your outdoor lights, electronics, and small appliances from anywhere using your smartphone. [pullquote]A smart home should extend beyond your front door. That’s where this guy comes in.”[/pullquote]

You can also set up the GE Outdoor Power Outlet to automatically trigger what’s plugged in to it to turn on or off when various actions occur (ie: people arriving, motion detected, doors opening, etc.).

Setup:
The GE Outdoor Power Outlet is found under the “Switches & Dimmers” category of the SmartSetup section of the app. By tapping on it, you can browse a list of popular use cases and then easily set them up by following a few quick prompts:

Favorite Ways to Use the GE Outdoor Power Outlet:

Light
By plugging in an outdoor light near your front walk or driveway to the GE Power Outlet, you can easily…

output_kwxsmc• Set lights to come on when you approach your home (by using either a SmartSense Presence sensor or by carrying your smartphone) and then to turn off several minutes later. Pretty cool to see your outdoor lights come on as you roll in to the driveway.

• Turn your lights on and off based on a set schedule.

• Turn lights on and off when motion is detected (if you have an Aeon Multi-Sensor). In addition to conveniently lighting your path to the front or back door, this option provides a great security measure against intruders.

• Trigger lights to come on when you open a door. Have a door that leads out to your patio or deck? Easy. And super convenient.

Temperature
Porches and outdoor spaces can get a little sweaty in the summer. Cool down with this idea using the GE Outdoor Power Outlet…

200-1Go to the “Green Living” category of “More” in SmartSetup to configure “Virtual Thermostat.” By following the prompts, you can trigger a fan (or any electronic, for that matter) to automatically turn on if the temperature exceeds a certain threshold.

Want to get fancy? If you have an Aeon Multi-Sensor, you can set up “Virtual Thermostat” to automatically turn on a fan or appliance if the temperature reaches a certain threshold and there’s motion detected – like, if you’re outside grilling or chilling in a hammock.

Parties
If the Hub is the “brain” of the SmartThings family, the GE Outdoor Power Outlet is the fun younger sibling who’s always always down to hit up a happy hour. And maybe do a keg stand. Here are three ways it can get the party started at your next outdoor gathering:

• Anyone who’s ever hosted an outdoor party knows it’s a chore to have to shuttle inside to the kitchen every time someone wants another margarita. Solution: Bring the blender outside, plug it into the GE Power Outlet and let friends make their own drinks. Or even cooler: Whip up a pitcher from across the yard with a simple tap of a button in your SmartThings app.

tumblr_mowty9aFDT1ssoyl0o1_500• A party without music is like a bike without wheels. Bring your stereo or speakers outdoors and control it from anywhere using your smartphone.

• Assuming your shindig lingers into the evening, create a little ambiánce (French?) by turning on overhead string lights that are plugged into the GE Power Outlet directly from the SmartThings app.