German telecom operator Deutsche Telekom has integrated smart home features in its Speedport smart router to offer expanded service offerings
In addition to Wi-Fi, the Speedport Smart now also supports the DECT ULE cordless standard – enabling the integration of smoke detectors, thermostats, and many other devices as DT continues to expand its smart home offerings. Other protocols can be retrofitted via USB port. A USB stick for the ZigBee protocol is already available and a stick for the Homematic IP protocol is scheduled for release in the coming months, the German telco said.
Newly shipped Speedport Smart routers will gain the additional features, and routers already installed by customers will receive a firmware update. “That means we equipped 170,000 households in Germany with a control center for Magenta SmartHome overnight,” said Henri Vandré, Head of Smart Home at Telekom Deutschland. “And we will be shipping around 1.2 million additional smart routers every year,” he added.
Deutsche Telekom has also announced the launch of a new portfolio of components for its Magenta SmartHome under its own brand. The current portfolio of smart home devices includes smoke and motion detectors, door and window contacts, and indoor sirens. Other devices, such as a connector plug for outdoors, will be released soon.
Semtech to collaborate with Movtek on LoRa-based wearable device
In related news, Semtech Corporation announced its collaboration with Movtek, a developer of IoT terminal devices and server platforms, in developing a LoRa-based wearable device that can track the users exact location using GPS technology with the gateway integrated in users’ Smart Home.
The technology is currently being deployed in smart watches and bracelets that can be worn by senior citizens and children who need monitoring for safety.
The smart watches are equipped with Semtech’s LoRa devices and wireless RF technology) that features long range, low power capabilities. The features enable deep penetration capability for urban environments and indoor coverage enabling a variety of Smart Home and Healthcare applications. The Movtek devices are currently in pre-production and will be available by the end of 2017.
“As next-generation IoT technologies are developed, there is a need for more Smart Home and Healthcare applications,” said Mike Wong, Vice President of Marketing for Semtech’s Wireless and Sensing Products Group. “With its low power, long range capabilities, Semtech’s LoRa Technology helps users solve real-world challenges and improve everyday living.”