At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025, smart home innovator Aqara made a massive entrance by unveiling no less than nine new products designed to enhance home automation and connectivity. While the excitement is palpable, U.S. consumers will have to wait a bit longer as most of these devices are not expected to hit the American market until later in the year.
Among the standout products showcased is the Panel Hub S1 Plus, a large touchscreen control panel that exemplifies Aqara’s commitment to user-centric design. This versatile device acts as a smart light switch, a control panel for other smart devices, a Zigbee hub, and a Matter bridge for Aqara’s range of Zigbee-enabled gadgets. With this device, Aqara is emphasizing simplicity and ease of use, aiming to make smart home management intuitive without the reliance on smartphones.
The unveiling included further advanced control products such as the Touchscreen Dial V1 and the Touchscreen Switch S100 US. These in-wall panels come equipped with sleek touchscreen interfaces that provide centralized command over various smart devices throughout the home. This focus on approachable technology positions Aqara to lead the charge in making smart homes accessible to a broader audience.
Additional products revealed at the show include the highly anticipated next-generation dual-protocol smart switches, the Light Switch H2 and Dimmer Switch H2, which are set to arrive in North America before the end of this year. Interoperability—a core tenet of Aqara’s design philosophy—is strengthened further with the expansion of its Thread portfolio, featuring new sensors and Border Routers designed to simplify connectivity between devices.
Among the sensors introduced is the Presence Multi-Sensor FP300, a battery-operated device capable of human detection and ambient monitoring, tailored for modern security and comfort needs. Complementing this is the Climate Sensor W100, which aims to provide an enhanced experience in indoor climate management. Further enriching the product line is the entry-level Hub M100 Matter Controller, compactly designed to fit easily into any home setup, alongside the Doorbell Camera Hub G410 that promises to boost home security while enhancing connectivity.
No doubt, the show stealer is the Panel Hub S1 Plus, a premium in-wall control panel that centralizes smart home management. It can replace any traditional light switch while offering the capability to control and automate up to two lights directly. With dual-band Wi-Fi and a generous 6.9-inch touchscreen, this device stands out for its ability to manage a plethora of smart home devices including cameras, door locks, thermostats, lights, curtains, and more. Moreover, it can also set off various scenes and routines throughout the home, offering seamless integration into daily life. The S1 Plus features the additional benefit of functioning as a Zigbee hub and Matter bridge, making it a versatile addition to any smart home ecosystem.
Aqara’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its plans to launch these exciting products in Europe as soon as this month, with U.S. availability expected later in the year. This follows the October debut of the Aqara Smart Lock U300, which includes support for Apple Home Key, Matter, and Thread, alongside the introduction of a new water valve controller last month.
As consumers look for advanced yet accessible smart home solutions, Aqara’s latest offerings may well set the stage for a new wave of home automation technology, blending functionality, security, and ease of use in a single package. With an increasing focus on integration and user experience, Aqara is positioning itself as a leader in the dynamic smart home market, promising a transformative year ahead for tech-savvy homeowners.