Smart Home powerhouse Aqara has announced the launch of its Smart Home Starter Kit in South Korea. What makes this starter kit different to the ones we’ve seen previously, is that the central component is the new Aqara M2 hub, albeit one specifically tailored for South Korean consumers. Additionally, the sensors that make up the kit comprises of the T1 versions of the popular sensors that are currently available. The T1 sensors are all Zigbee 3.0 updates to the standard ones and are designed to work with the newer hubs that also use Zigbee 3.0 as standard.
This new Starter Kit consists of the following products:
- Aqara Hub M2
- Aqara Motion Sensor T1
- Aqara Door and Window Sensor T1
- Aqara Smart Plug T1
- Aqara Mini Wireless Switch T1
interestingly enough, South Korea uses the same type of plugs (type C) as the EU, and with the same voltage requirements, although there is one aspect of the South Korean release that sets it apart from previous launches. The Smart Home Starter Kit is, as expected, compatible with HomeKit, but is also compatible with Clova (due some time in 2021), one of South Korea’s most popular voice assistants. All devices within the Kit will also integrate with the LG ThinQ app, which allows Aqara devices to work with LG Electronics (LGE) appliances including air purifiers, air conditioners, robotic vacuums and dehumidifiers. An additional 13 categories of home appliances from the LGE lineup including washing machines, dryers, ovens, water purifiers, and more are expected to integrate with Aqara devices by the end of 2020**.
The starter kit is now available for purchase on online channels including the LG ThinQ in-app store.
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