APPLE RELEASES HOMEKIT-ENABLED ECOBEE3 SMART THERMOSTAT IN STORES

By Jacob Newberger

Introduction

A longtime resident of Pennsylvania, Jacob Newberger has worked as an automation engineer in the greater Philadelphia region for the past several years. In addition to his professional interests, Jacob Newberger enjoys following the latest developments in the home automation industry.

In early July, Apple debuted the ecobee3 as the first HomeKit-enabled smart thermostat to appear in brick-and-mortar stores throughout North America, ahead of the Google-owned Nest smart thermostat.

ecobee3 Smart Thermostat

The ecobee3 remains constantly connected to a home’s WiFi network, and like all other HomeKit devices, can be remotely controlled via voice commands to Siri, or through any iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch device.

Unlike other smart thermostats, the ecobee3 supports up to 32 remote sensors throughout the home, and can automatically adjust the temperature based on home activity and weather conditions. According to the ecobee3 website, the device can help homeowners save an average of 23 percent on annual energy expenses.