iHome today has unveiled a handful of new accessories at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The well-known accessory maker has unveiled a new version of its popular SmartPlug, a handful of Bluetooth accessories, and a pair of new docking stations.
Perhaps most notably is the new version of iHome’s SmartPlug. For those unfamiliar, the WiFi-enabled SmartPlug adds Siri automation to any two- or three-pronged accessory you have around the house. The accessory is controlled via iHome’s app and Siri. We reviewed the original model last year and noted of it being an inexpensive way to try out HomeKit.
The first iteration of iHome’s SmartPlug was unveiled at CES 2014 and was relatively popular when it was released last summer. This year, then company is introducing the iSP8 SmartPlug as a successor to the iSP5. The new model features all of the same capabilities as last year’s, but adds the ability to manage it with a remote control, should you not have your smartphone or tablet near you. The iPS8 also features power consumption monitoring of devices that are plugged into it.
iHome has also unveiled a pair of new docking stations. The first is the iDL44 Lightning Dock, which features built FM radio capabilities, Time Sync capabilities, and Reson8 speaker chambers for “exceptional” sound quality. The iDL44 will be available for $99.99. Further more, the iPL24 is a more compact and affordable version of the iDL44 and will be available for $69.99.
Next, iHome has unveiled a plethora of Bluetooth accessories. The iBT37 is a waterproof rechargeable speaker, the Kineta K5 is a Bluetooth capable alarm clock, and the iBT682 is your standard Bluetooth speaker but with a “color changing mode.” Finally, the accessory maker has unveiled the iB29 metal Bluetooth earbuds and the iB71 Bluetooth water-resistant earbuds.
More info is available in the press release below.
iHome Unveils New Smart Home Products, Portable Speaker Lines, Docking Stations, Bluetooth Headphones, Fresh Home Gadgets & More at the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show
RAHWAY, NJ, January 5, 2016 – The world’s best-selling digital speaker brand and emerging smart home innovator will unveil its most diverse product lineup in the company’s rich 60 year history at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Highlighting the 2016 lineup will be new products from iHome’s popular iHome Control smart home brand, as well as a new rugged portable speaker line called Weather Tough; gadgets for the home, Bluetooth speakers, mobile docking/charging stations, headphones and much more. Select offerings from the 2016 line-up include:
iHome Control Smart Home
iHome Control iSP8 SmartPlug With Remote Control & Power Monitoring
iHome’s first smart plug (iSP5) was unveiled at last year’s CES and was a top-seller in the category when it launched last summer. The new iSP8 features compatibility with iOS, Android, Nest, Wink and more. It allows users to control any connected device from home, or remotely. Turn on or off any small appliance such as fans, lights, and heaters remotely or at home via the free iHome Control app. The iSP8 also features power consumption monitoring of devices connected to the SmartPlug and works with an included remote control without using a smartphone or tablet. Expected MSRP: $49.99.
Weather Tough
iBT37 Portable Waterproof Rechargeable Bluetooth Speaker with Speakerphone
From the new Weather Tough line of rugged, weather/water- and shock-resistant, versatile audio units, the iBT37 lets users bring the music anywhere. The wireless system streams digital audio from Bluetooth-enabled devices. Built-in mic and digital voice echo cancellation make speakerphone use a pleasure. Operates on internal rechargeable battery, charges via USB charging port (USB cable included). IP67-rated water and dust proof, shock resistant. Carry strap with carabiner clip included. Expected MSRP: $39.99.
Docking Stations
iDL44 Lightning Dock Dual Alarm FM Stereo Clock Radio
A dual alarm clock FM radio for iPad, iPhone and iPod allows users to charge and play iOS devices as well as wake or sleep to them, or the built-in FM radio. The new Lightning Dock design allows extra space to fit most cases, including Apple’s new charging case. The Time Sync feature syncs the clock to an iPhone or iPad in moments. The iDL44 includes 6 FM presets, EQ controls and Reson8® speaker chambers for exceptional stereo sound, as well as a USB charging port to charge most mobile devices. Expected MSRP: $99.99.
iPL24 Dual Alarm FM Clock Radio
The iPL24 is a handsome, space-saving speaker unit featuring a Lightning connector to charge and play iPhones and iPods. New Lightning dock design offers extra flexibility to fit most cases, including Apple’s new charging case. Two alarms allows users to wake to their favorite iPhone or iPod tunes, or FM radio stations through a high fidelity driver in a specially designed Reson8® speaker chamber. Auto sync feature instantly sets clock to iPhone or iPod time. One amp USB port will charge most mobile devices and the aux-in jack connects almost any audio device equipped with a headphone jack. Expected MSRP: $69.99.
Kineta
K5 Dual Charging Bluetooth Dual Alarm Clock Radio/Speakerphone
From the popular Kineta line featuring removable K-CELL batteries, this compact and space-saving unit has a Bluetooth-enabled wireless FM clock radio with built-in speakerphone an offers a pop-out removable battery pack to charge devices. Stream wireless digital audio from Bluetooth-enabled devices to Reson8® speakers for full, rich sound. Built-in mic, digital voice echo cancellation and answer and end controls make speakerphone use a breeze. Expected MSRP: $69.99.
Colorful Portable Bluetooth Audio
iBT682 Color Changing Rechargeable True Wireless Bluetooth Speakers with Speakerphone
Bring the party anywhere with the funky portable iBT682 Bluetooth stereo speaker with speakerphone. Stream music wirelessly from any Bluetooth-enabled device. True Wireless technology for real stereo sound imaging. Speakers can be used together or separately. Never miss a call with the built-in speakerphone. Compact speaker fits in the palm of a hand, yet offers surprisingly rich, detailed sound. Color changing mode for fun, fabulous color effects. Operates on internal rechargeable battery, charges via included micro USB to standard USB charging cable. Expected MSRP: $59.99
Bluetooth Headphones
iB29 Wireless Bluetooth Metal Earbuds
Enjoy rich, detailed sound with enhanced bass response without inconvenient cables and cords. Earpieces connected by a stylish flat cable for tangle free use. Earbuds attach magnetically for added portability. Bluetooth 4.0 wireless capability offers lower energy consumption and allows users to listen to audio from mobile devices up to 30 feet away. Custom fit ear cushions make extended listening a pleasure. Built-in echo-cancelling mic allows for handling wireless phone calls and an in-line remote control puts track control, play/pause, answer/end calls and volume control within easy reach. Rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides 4 hours of continuous audio (music playback or phone). Includes USB charging cable. Expected MSRP: $29.99.
iB71 Bluetooth Wireless Water-Resistant Sport Earphones
Features iPX5-rated water-resistant construction for sweat-proof use and protection from the elements. Enjoy rich, detailed sound with enhanced bass response without inconvenient cables and cords (earpieces are connected by a stylish flat cable for tangle free use). Bluetooth 4.0 wireless capability lets you listen to audio from your mobile device from up to 30 feet away, while our custom fit ear cushions make extended listening a pleasure. Internal rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides 4 hours of continuous music or talking. Built-in echo-cancelling mic allows you to have wireless phone calls and an in-line remote control puts track control, play/pause, answer/end calls and volume control within easy reach. Multiple ear cushions and ear clips for a secure fit. Includes important extras such as USB charging cable and travel pouch. Expected MSRP: $39.99.
For more information, or to see the lineup of 2016 products from iHome, visit CES’s Tech East, Central Hall, Booth 9024. Please note a number of units, including all new smart home products, will only be shown to media with advanced press appointments.
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I’m waiting for smart plugs and switches that come in under $20. The current norm of $50+ is simply gouging.
Funny, I’m waiting for a switch that works. I bought two of the iHome SmartPlugs for use with my christmas tree and some indoor lights. Setup worked okay but they were the most unreliable devices I’ve purchased in years. Had to reset them several times and ended up just sending a kid under the tree each night to push the button on and off for the lights. Not reliable tech at all.
HAHA sending a kid under, I like that!
Requiring Siri to turn things off & on is not “home automation”; it’s a novelty that soon becomes tedious.