Aqara Launches a Security Camera
Aqara recently launched the Camera Hub G5 Pro, a Wi-Fi and PoE (Power over Ethernet) enabled camera designed for indoor and outdoor use. The camera doubles as a smart home hub (and Thread border router) and has a built-in NPU. The NPU is needed for AI processing for the camera’s smart visual recognition features. The camera requires the standard monthly service for access to video history however the AI facial recognition features are (so far) included free.
The Circana Take:
- Adding smart hub functionality into a camera will alleviate technology challenges for multi-platform households.
- The G5 Pro is compatible with numerous technology specifications and Zigbee support means the camera can replace other Aqara hubs in the home.
- Interestingly, and more notably, Aqara claims AI processing for facial and object recognition is done on the device which ought to make processing faster and eliminate some privacy concerns.
Nanoleaf Slashes Prices
Smart Lighting company Nanoleaf announced it would permanently lower prices for many products including its best-selling Shapes, Lines, and Elements lines. According to the company, a 36% price reduction for these products has been under consideration for nearly two years as the company looks to compete with new and lower cost brands entering the market. Nanoleaf dubbed the move SmarterLife Pricing with CEO Gimmy Chu noting it would make “Nanoleaf products more accessible for everyone in our community.” The new prices have already rolled out to Nanoleaf’s own site and will be available at retail in a few days.
The Circana Take:
- As prices fall across Smart Home product categories, established brands will see increased competitive pressure as value brands gain market share.
- Nanoleaf has strong brand value and unique products on the retail market. Lowering prices is a way to disrupt the market, helping Nanoleaf leverage its brand in lower price tiers and could result in increased price pressure on its competitors.