IFTTT helps iSmartAlarm finally talk to other devices
The Indiegogo-crowdfunded iSmartAlarm security system now works with Belkin WeMo products, Philips Hue LEDs and more.
iSmartAlarm announced plans for IFTTT, HomeKit, Z-Wave and Thread compatibility at CES 2015. Given that this DIY home security system has been sorely lacking in the third-party integration department since it launched on Indiegogo in early 2013, we weren't holding our breath.
But, iSmartAlarm is finally delivering, starting with a new IFTTT channel this week.
Although iSmartAlarm had a wildly successful Indiegogo campaign -- the team surpassed its original funding goal by 452 percent -- it was also fairly early to the whole smart-home crowdfunding thing. Since then, dozens of other startups have introduced white plastic sensor-based security and automation products that promise to do roughly the same thing as iSmartAlarm.
Many of iSmartAlarm's competitors also integrate with SmartThings , Wink , Works with Nest or IFTTT and claim upcoming compatibility with Apple's Siri-based HomeKit platform. That makes iSmartAlarm's "iPhone-controlled home security system," as its original Indiegogo page describes it, a bit tired in comparison.
This IFTTT channel announcement seems to signal that iSmartAlarm really is committed to integrating with third-party devices, though. Now you can create recipes that link iSmartAlarm and Philips Hue LEDs, the Nest Protect, Belkin switches, the Homeboy camera, SmartThings and more.
Some examples include, "Turn On My Belkin Insight Switch When My iSmartAlarm is Triggered By Contact Sensor," "If there's a carbon monoxide emergency, increase the reach of Nest Protect's internal horn by triggering my iSmartAlarm, too," and "If no one is detected as being home with my SmartThings SmartSense, arm my iSmartAlarm automatically."
iSmartAlarm also recently introduced a camera to its lineup, called the iKeep , and has plans to release a new Z-Wave-compatible hub, siren, multisensor and water sensor later this year that has the potential to integrate with third-party Z-Wave products like smart locks.
While it may have trailed behind some of the more inclusive DIY security offerings in the past, iSmartAlarm does appear to be picking up the pace now. Be sure to check back soon for updates on iSmartAlarm's other planned integrations.