Lighting control pioneer Lutron Electronics announced the integration of its HomeWorks QS and RadioRA 2 lighting control systems with Amazon Alexa, providing convenient voice-activated control of lights, shades, and temperature. Lutron’s HomeWorks QS and RadioRA 2 whole-home control systems can be controlled from anywhere inside or outside the home from system keypads, a mobile device, the Lutron Pico remote control, and select third-party devices. And now, customers with an Amazon Echo, Echo Dot, Amazon Tap, or Amazon Fire TV can control these systems using their voice.
Earlier this year, Lutron announced the integration of Amazon Alexa with its Caséta Wireless system. Adding voice-activated scene and room control to Lutron systems is an ideal match for homeowners looking to use this popular new technology. Alexa-enabled devices are great for areas where people spend the majority of their time, like the family room and kitchen. Whether users are watching TV, helping the kids with homework, or entertaining friends, all automated systems can now be easily controlled using voice commands, including multi-action scenarios such as saying, “Alexa, turn on Dinner Party,” to activate the correct lights, shades and temperature to ideal levels.
“Asking Alexa to control your lights is undeniably powerful and can simplify things like coming home with arms full of groceries,” said Ed Blair, Lutron vice-president and general manager, who also noted the product’s usefulness to the aging in place community. “For people with limited mobility, voice technology can restore some freedom once taken for granted – like easily moving about to set the lights, shades and temperature. Smart home products are not just about the wow factor anymore – they’re changing peoples’ lives.”
“We’ve heard from do-it-yourselfer customers that they love the current Lutron Caséta support for Amazon Echo and Echo Dot.” said Charlie Kindel, Director, Amazon Alexa. “Now with support for their HomeWorks and RadioRA 2 systems, more customers can experience the magic of using voice to control the lights, scenes, and shades. Lutron provides a high-quality, easy set-up solution for our Alexa customers, and we can’t wait for them to try out the new offerings later this year.”
And according to Blair, the powerful Pico remote, which can be mounted to a wall without wiring or affixed to a tabletop pedestal, is ideal for times when talking to Alexa just isn’t possible, like when kids are sleeping or you’re in the middle of an important phone call. “Lutron has worked hard to make sure all situations are covered,” he said.
Lutron was one of the first companies to offer integration with Apple’s HomeKit, using its Smart Bridge and app for Caséta Wireless to connect home systems and use Siri voice control. The integration of Lutron’s HomeWorks QS and RadioRA 2 lighting control systems with Amazon Alexa will be available later this year. Configuration of voice control requires the Lutron Connect app.
www.lutron.com
