Image credit – Teknikveckan
Known for creating affordable and minimalistic furniture, IKEA has in recent times expanded on their offerings to keep up with the times. For example the company is now dabbling in smart speakers, and previously they also launched smart light bulbs that were compatible with Apple’s HomeKit platform.
Now according to Swedish website Teknikveckan (via AppleInsider), it looks like IKEA has more smart devices in the works, such as smart plugs. From the leaked screenshot of what appears to be IKEA’s internal product database, it mentions how the smart plug will be launched in October where it will retail for $10, but a bundle with the plug and remote will be priced at $15, a good sight cheaper than some of the alternatives in the market today.
However in terms of functionality, it will be limited as it will only offer on/off functions. This means that should you connect a device to it, at best you would only be able to remotely turn it on or off. However if you’re not looking to do more then at $10-$15, it’s actually a very affordable way to put together a smart home without having to go out and buy completely brand new appliances.
No word on whether IKEA plans to bring these smart bulbs to the US as the image above shows the plug using Europe’s Type F outlet, but generally speaking IKEA’s lineup is quite similar from country to country, so perhaps it’s just a matter of time.
Filed in . Read more about Connected Objects, HomeKit, Ikea and IoT (Internet of Things).