Tado° launches what it claims is the first device adding app-controlled smarts to regular air conditioners-- the Smart AC Control, a piece of hardware acting as a bridge between AC units and mobile devices.
First seen back in a May 2014 as a Kickstarter campaign, Smart AC Control uses smartphone geolocation to automatically control according to homeowner location. In other words, it should switch on the AC in order to pre-cool the house as soon as the user starts heading home, or switch it off when they leave.
The result, according to Tado°, is energy use reductions of up to 40%.
In addition it also features temperature, humidity, light, noise, motion and BLE sensors to ensure the most comfortable temperatures. The makers say the device does not use all sensors as yet, but future software updates should lead to benefits for both new and existing customers.
One can connect the Smart AC Control to any remote-controlled in-room AC, and it is compatible with split (wall-mounted), in-window or portable AC units. Connections come through IR and wifi, with no additional cabling acquired. Installers can either mount it on walls or simply place it on a surface.
The Tado° Smart AC Control is available now in European markets.
