Home Automation News #4 – May 13 - 27

Smart homes are getting smarter and smarter. From facial recognition door locks to cross-platform APIs and the quiet rise of homeOS, this edition highlights how AI, automation, and interoperability are reshaping the way we access, manage, and experience connected living. 

1. SwitchBot Unveils Lock Ultra with 3D Facial Recognition 

SwitchBot has introduced the Lock Ultra, a retrofit smart lock featuring 3D facial recognition technology. Paired with the SwitchBot Keypad Vision, the system uses over 30,000 infrared points to authenticate users, allowing door unlocking in under a second. The Lock Ultra supports up to 18 unlocking methods, including fingerprint, keycode, NFC card, app control, and geofencing. Designed for easy installation without replacing existing locks, it retains the option to use traditional keys. 

2. Google Integrates Gemini AI into Home APIs 

Google announced the integration of its Gemini AI into the Home APIs, significantly enhancing smart home capabilities for developers and manufacturers. This advancement allows integration of AI-powered features such as camera analytics, conversational automation setup, and proactive suggestions based on home devices, previously exclusive to Google’s own platform.  

3. Apple Plans to Launch AI-Powered Smart Home Hub 

This is a concept image generated using AI and does not represent an official Apple product or design.

Apple is expected to unveil a new smart home gadget by the end of 2025. First rumored in 2022, the device is reported by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman to be an Apple smart home hub, marking the company’s debut in this product category. The device is anticipated to integrate features from Apple's HomePod and iPad, likely featuring a 7-inch square display, a built-in camera, and compatibility with services like FaceTime, Apple TV, Apple Music, and Photos.  

4. Hisense Extends ConnectLife Platform via Google's Home APIs 

Hisense has announced the integration of Google's new Home APIs into its ConnectLife app, enabling users to incorporate third-party smart devices into the ConnectLife ecosystem by fall 2025. This move aims to enhance interoperability among smart devices and provide users with a more unified experience. 

Wrapping up 

The smart home is no longer a collection of gadgets, it’s an evolving ecosystem of intelligence, automation, and trust. Whether it’s face-unlock for your door or APIs that let devices talk smarter, this is just the beginning.  

Thanks for reading stay tuned for more updates shaping the future of connected living! 

Sources: The stories featured in Home Automation News are curated from verified industry publications, official product announcements, and trusted media outlets such as The Verge, 9to5Google, and company newsrooms. 

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