SwitchBot, the creators of my go-to Find My wallet tracker, have introduced a new entry in the realm of smart blinds: the SwitchBot Roller Shade.
This option stands out as one of the more budget-friendly smart blinds available, featuring an adjustable bar to accommodate various window sizes. If you have the SwitchBot Hub 2, you can seamlessly integrate these shades with the Apple Home app via Matter. However, it’s important to note that they cannot function as a standalone Matter accessory; the hub is necessary.
The SwitchBot Roller Shade boasts an adjustable width ranging from 22.8 inches to 72.8 inches. The fabric will require trimming, yet the retractable curtain box design allows for a snug fit without needing extremely accurate measurements before your order.
Additionally, you can easily swap out the shade fabric to complement your room’s decor. It’s even possible to reuse your current curtains, replacing just the motor unit, effectively transforming your existing shades into smart, controllable ones.
Thanks to the Matter integration (hub needed), you can operate the blinds through the Apple Home app and use Siri across your iPhone, HomePod, Apple TV, or any Apple device. The Home app allows you to adjust the blinds to any exact percentage you desire. You can also include the shades in your Home automations and scenes, automating them to rise and fall based on the time of day.
The shades come equipped with an internal battery that lasts for up to eight months on a single charge, allowing for completely wireless operation. Alternatively, you can attach a solar panel to power the shades indefinitely, eliminating the need for manual charging.
For more details on the SwitchBot Roller Shade, visit their website. In the context of smart home solutions, this shade is quite reasonably priced at $199, and there’s currently a discount exceeding $70 available online.