Apple HomeKit added to Ikea Tradfri smart bulb line with firmware update

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kristine
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Apple HomeKit added to Ikea Tradfri smart bulb line with firmware update

Postby kristine » 11 Aug 2017 10:12

Ikea has quietly added HomeKit support to its inexpensive Tradfri line of smart bulbs, necessitating a firmware update to the system's bridge to enable.

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Ikea never proclaimed that it had updated the system. Confirmation of the addition only came after a user of the system noted a technical details change, and performed the firmware update.

The Tradfri system spans nearly every kind of residential light bulb connector, with desk lamp compatible E12, Edison connector E27, and fixture-compatible GU10 bulbs available in the system. A network gateway plugs into an Ethernet connector on a router or hub, allowing for the iOS app to control connected bulbs.

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By itself, a stand-alone bulb and a dimmer remote that can control up to 10 bulbs retails for $19.99. A motion sensor kit with a single bulb retails for $25. If a user wishes to use any kind of smartphone application application to control the system, the gateway is required and sells for $30. Individual bulbs are available for as low as $11.99.

The Tradfri app requires iOS 8, and occupies 41.5 MB of device storage space.

The firmware update also adds Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility.

AppleInsider is currently examining the system for a future review.

Introduced in 2014, HomeKit allows users to connect to a variety of compatible so-called "internet of things" devices through the iOS Home app in conjunction with each other, as opposed to a series of disconnected interfaces.

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