An automated home has just become more of a reality with the announcement of cnct intelliPLUG – an affordable smart plug that lets you control devices from wherever your iOS or Android phone can get a signal. I just received a pre-release sample, and I’m saying you are going to love this thing.
At home, the plug is Amazon Alexa enabled, so you can control your devices with just your voice. intelliPLUG also will be adding Google Assistant and HomeKit in the hopefully near future.
6/28/17 UPDATE!!! They’ve hit two stretch goals already, so Google Home and IFTTT integration is promised.
Setup couldn’t be easier – plug in the intelliPLUG, download the app (cnct Life), add your Wi-Fi password and wham – you’re connected.
Now, as well as controlling devices manually, you can set the intelliPLUG to turn on and off at specific times of day – both singly and repeating occurrences. You can also start or stop the plug based on a countdown timer – say you want to turn the kids TV off in 35 minutes.
I’m pressing it into service with a closed-circuit security camera that I only use infrequently. I don’t want the camera on while I’m in the office, as I’d be constantly setting off the alarm as I move through its zone of vision. But, too often, I leave the office, forgetting to turn it on before I leave.
Now, it’s a simple matter of calling up the app on my phone, and I can activate it from anywhere. Problem solved.
The Indiegogo campaign which has a funding goal of $25,000 USD, features limited Early Bird specials of $19.99 USD for a 2-pack (50% off retail) and several other rewards for early backers. Or do like I did and order the 6 pack for $50 +$5 shipping.
Disclosure: cnct sent me a prerelease sample to try out for this review. Opinions above, however, are strictly my own.