Apple Adds Thread 1.4 to tvOS
Recent updates to Thread, the low power mesh networking protocol allowing smart devices to communicate with each other, will standardize how Thread border routers connect to networks. Thread 1.4, which will reportedly be added to the latest edition of tvOS , will allow new devices to join existing networks, as opposed to requiring them to create new networks. This will help alleviate complications and crowding for homes with multiple Thread devices installed. Notably, Google, Amazon, and Samsung are still running Thread 1.3.
The Circana Take:
- Updates to Thread, the mesh protocol on which Matter runs, will help streamline smart home device installation and interoperability by eliminating complications with setting up new Thread networks.
- While Apple’s implementation of the new Thread specification will help all Apple households, homes with multiple brands and ecosystems of Thread border router devices will still face the challenge of parallel networks when new devices are installed.
Introducing Smart Coolers
Smart Coolers are keeping food and beverages cold while on the go. Anker, the company that owns the smart home brand Eufy, released the Everfrost 2 earlier this year for $899 and the product joins other devices from brands such as EcoFlow and Ninja. The Everfrost 2 is essentially a refrigerator on wheels; the smart functionality is enabled by Wi-Fi which allows users to check battery levels and change the temperature via smartphone. The cooler can charge devices using USB-A and USB-C outlets and can be charged via traditional methods or by solar- handy when in more remote environments.
The Circana Take:
- While smart coolers don’t offer much in the way of smart features, the devices are useful for outdoor excursions. With device charging options, solar power and a companion app, smart coolers are more like souped-up mobile charging devices. Other additions such as bottle openers, interior LED lights, and dual zone cooling make these the best (and costliest) coolers available on the market.