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ZDNET Highlights
- Amazon made smart dimmer switch Available for Pre-order.
- This switch is battery powered with four individually programmable buttons that can control smart home devices, run routines, or control music.
- The dimmer switch only costs $20 and is compatible with Alexa-enabled devices.
Amazon quietly made it smart dimmer switch Available for preorder on October 31st for $20 with shipping. The company had introduced this switch during its Devices and Services event in September, although no specific information was given about when it will be available in the market.
The Smart Dimmer Switch is a wireless remote under the Amazon Basics brand that works with Alexa. The Switch has four buttons that can be individually programmed to perform almost any task that Alexa can do. The buttons can control specific smart home devices, groups, run routines, play music, and more.
Also: 8 smart home gadgets I invested in this year — and how they’re already paying off
Unlike a regular switch, a smart dimmer switch can control multiple devices simultaneously and run preset automations. Instead of dimming or turning on a light by simply pressing a button, you can set a button on this smart dimmer switch to turn on your bedroom light, fan, and adjust the temperature on your smart thermostat all at once.
Amazon wants the smart dimmer switch to provide convenience and control without relying on voice commands. Instead of asking Alexa to perform tasks multiple times a day, you can program common buttons to perform tasks, like closing the garage or setting the scene for movie night.
The switch from voice control to pressing a button is more unprecedented than smart home users might imagine. Alexa is one of the most compatible smart home systems available, with millions of devices carrying the ‘Works with Alexa’ tag.
However, many smart home users are hesitant about having an Echo device in their homes that is always listening. This smart dimmer switch addresses that concern and allows users to run Alexa-like automations with the press of a button.
Also: What is Alexa+? Everything you need to know about Amazon’s new AI assistant
This isn’t the first programmable smart home switch to hit the market; Other companies, such as Linuxura And FabulousFor example, already offering similar products. Switchbot’s Hub 3 It also serves as a remote control for Switchbot and Matter-compatible devices, letting you control more than just Alexa devices.
Smart lighting manufacturers like Lutron have also released similar wireless dimmer switches like the Pico Remote. However, these switches are designed for their proprietary smart home ecosystem and are limited to lighting control.
Also: I used Amazon’s Echo Show 21 as my smart home hub — and it’s almost perfect
Amazon Basics Smart Dimmer Switch Battery operated, which means you can take it with you around the house. It comes with a base that can be mounted on the wall, but it’s also magnetic, and you can stick it to the fridge or other metal surfaces.
The Switch connects to your Echo device, acting as a hub, and Alexa can set it up within minutes of removing the battery tab. The Alexa app lets you set up your new remote and program which buttons do what.
